Keeping the public on its side
If the socialist government wants to keep public opinion on its side, notwithstanding the painful measures it has announced in an effort to rescue the Greek economy from default, then there is only one path for it to follow. Greek taxpayers have had enough of impunity and unlawful dealings. They are demanding the immediate and strict punishment of those who have committed serious economic crimes and major tax fraud. In cases of dubious financial settlements and arrangements, voters expect George Papandreou’s government to hold accountable those who are responsible for any wrongdoing. This goal will not be easy to achieve, as the PASOK administration will have to overcome resistance from powerful vested interests. But if the government succeeded in sending wrongdoers – as well as those who provided protection for them – to the prosecutor, it would gain a great deal at a very difficult juncture.
