The next big step for Kouvelis
Democratic Left, headed by Fotis Kouvelis, made a landmark decision when it joined the coalition government. It helped – at considerable cost – the country stand on its feet in the eurozone at what was a critical time. But now the party needs to take that additional step to unblock the progress of crucial reforms.
The behavior of certain Democratic Left cabinet members in public is harming the government’s image and credibility. Their refusal to implement obvious and much-needed reforms is causing major problems in the coalition. The threat of new cuts that neither the government nor society can bear looms.
Kouvelis needs to muster the political courage to either get his ministers in step with the coalition’s pace and targets or replace them. After all, the power of progressive leftist parties lies in their open-mindedness and drive.