A dangerous game to play
Supporters of consensual politics are an uncomfortably small minority in Greece. Polarization has reached dangerous levels and is expected to grow further as the country nears election time. Nothing good will come of these tactics, of course, which smack of 1980s-style populism. But you can hardly convince, let alone galvanize, an electorate using the machinations of yesteryear.
People need to hope that something is changing. The nation’s mainstream parties could offer that hope by reaching an agreement on a set of basic measures, like making ministers more accountable. Our politicians must show that they can agree on the reforms that will restore the credibility of the political system.
Given the current balance of power we should not be surprised if former enemies are called upon to negotiate a common road map for the country together. All sides should be more careful of the polarization game because they may end up playing into the hands of those who want to destroy democracy.
