The Prime Minister Antonis Samaras and Government Vice President Evangelos Venizelos have arranged to meet at 1:45 on Monday, in order to discuss the latest financial and political developments. The Minister of Finances Gikas Hardouvelis is also expected to attend the meeting.
The recent ENFIA debacle in Parliament resulted in New Democracy and PASOK having to replace MPs in order to secure a vote for the controversial real estate tax, while highlighting the uncertainty over the possibility of early elections. The recent comments of New Democracy spokesman Adonis Georgiadis, who urged the Finance Minister to resign if he cannot fulfill his duties, is indicative of the stress amongst government officials.
With the troika expected to return to Athens in about ten days, the government has to tackle both its internal worries as well as to address its bailout commitments. While the coalition government has been optimistic about the development in finances and the primary surpluses, the troika has demanded the strict adherence to the program, while hinting towards the possibility of a further aid package.
The upcoming vote for President in early 2015 has put pressure on the coalition government, as it will have to secure 180 votes in Parliament to elect a successor for Karolos Papoulias or call early general elections. The Prime Minister has told his Ministers to expedite relief measures, particularly for social groups that have suffered the most. Mr. Venizelos has expressed his belief that the current government would survive the vote, albeit with “a little help from God”.
