Less talk…
A government’s first 100 days are extremely crucial. Costas Karamanlis appears to have drawn some useful conclusions from the devastating wildfires and the election result. He has formed a tighter government with many new figures, a government that is coordinated by him personally. Moreover, Karamanlis has formed an informal group of trusted officials to monitor sensitive issues like lottery operator OPAP or the financial crime squad. The coming weeks will show whether the premier will also open up his team to professionals from outside New Democracy, such as lawyers and technocrats. That is one aspect of the post-election landscape. But more alarming signals are coming from several senior ministers. Karamanlis has made two requests of his Cabinet: Steer clear of self-interested objectives and media overexposure. Both his calls have already been violated. Less than 48 hours passed before ministers offered to give another interview. Asked if they had something new to say, they simply rehashed pledges made three years earlier or before the elections. There’s nothing that eats away at the credibility of this government more than the endless press briefings, leaks and ministerial interviews. How many times can one listen to announcements about new appointments, drug price cuts and measures to curb tax dodging? There’s a very simple principle that all Cabinet members must adhere to: «Say nothing until the day a measure is ready to be enforced.» The fuel price fiasco damaged the administration at the point when it seemed ready to finally break some eggs. There is practically no opposition, yet the government still managed to shoot itself in the foot. People voted for fewer words and more deeds. Has the message reached the ears of Karamanlis and his ministers?
