The prime minister threw down the gauntlet before ruling New Democracy’s rebels as well as any ministers who had been hasty to challenge his authority.

Costas Karamanlis’s highly charged speech to the conservative party’s central committee last week made it clear that he is the conservatives’ undisputed leader.

It came at a crucial time. A large section of the public opinion was upset at the prime minister because, speaking at the Thessaloniki International Fair earlier this month, Karamanlis appeared to be offering political protection for the provocative behavior and ineptitude of certain government officials.

His central committee address created expectations that he will challenge those who fail to deliver on key issues.

Karamanlis has set clear goals. This a personal gamble for the premier as well, since his political time and voters’ tolerance are both running out fast.

The determination shown last Friday must become everyday practice for his government.