Most Greeks tend to focus on the negative side of things. Nevertheless, we ought to acknowledge the fact that a great deal has changed in this country over the past few years.

This is the first time in recent history that so many public figures have come under investigation by the authorities for alleged crimes. And a considerable number have ended up behind bars – in fact, the former mayor of Thessaloniki and two of his top aides were sentenced to life in jail yesterday after being found guilty of embezzling almost 18 million euros in state funds.

Similarly, the authorities are more willing to scrutinize formerly ignored lists of tax dodgers and other offenders, channeling squandered money back into the state coffers.

Overall, a lot has changed in the way judicial authorities and state functionaries are dealing with rampant corruption and tax evasion in the country.

That said, we must all refrain from defaming innocent citizens who may have unknowingly been caught up in the process.