Politics
ND moderates catch some flak, suggesting delicate party balance
The difficulties faced by Mitsotakis in his tricky balancing act as New Democracy leader, which involves him trying to present a reformist agenda while also keeping the right-wing of his party, which is more prone to populist messages on board, was highlighted this week when two important allies came under attack.
Healthcare next stop for Tsipras amid Georgiou case fallout
A day after government MPs approved a draft law introducing changes to the way Greek universities are run, the coalition focussed on a healthcare bill that represents its latest attempt to show its voters that it is active in policy-making in areas that are not linked directly to the bailout.
SYRIZA seeks to re-connect with left through contested university changes
The government approved on Wednesday a tertiary education bill that it says will introduce greater fairness at Greek universities, but which most opposition parties see as an attempt to challenge the idea of excellence.
Georgiou conviction may test relationship with lenders
An Athens court handed the former head of the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT), Andreas Georgiou, a two-year suspended jail sentence on Tuesday, potentially complicating the relationship between Athens and its lenders.
Varosha move puzzles amid low expectations on Cyprus
Athens and Nicosia are still trying to figure out what is behind Turkey's recent decision to open up Maronite villages and the “ghost city” of Famagusta (Varosha).
SYRIZA tries to look forward but struggles to escape past
The two-day meeting of SYRIZA’s central committee, which concluded on Saturday, did not produce any major surprises for Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras, allowing him to focus on a challenging few months ahead.
Government rounds off legislative activity, Mitsotakis offers alternative on education
The Greek government is trying to wrap up its legislative activity before the summer break so that it can then focus on different tasks from September.
Tsipras eyes expansionary measures in 2019 as he starts building post-MoU narrative
Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras gave a wide-ranging televised interview on Wednesday night in an apparent attempt to build on Tuesday’s bond issue and make one last attempt to win back some support before things wind down for August.
Bond success questioned as coalition looks to build on trial issue
After Tuesday’s trial bond issue, the government has set its sights on tapping the markets at least once more, possibly, twice by the time it exits the bailout programme next summer but its opponents believe any celebrations should be put on hold.
Judicial system becomes key battleground for political parties
The growing tension between the government and the country’s judiciary has moved up a level this week, with justice officials taking the uncharacteristic step of issuing a warning to the executive.