Greece has become “ungovernable,” former deputy prime minister and PASOK leader Evangelos Venizelos has warned, citing what he called a deep crisis of confidence in the country’s institutions, democracy and political system.
Speaking ahead of an upcoming event organized by his think tank, the Circle of Ideas, Venizelos said, in comments to state broadcaster ERT on Wednesday, that recent opinion polls point to “a multi-layered deadlock.”
Citizens, he said, are expressing disillusionment toward Parliament, the judiciary, independent authorities and political parties. “There is no willingness to participate in public life, and the political system is not seen as serious or productive,” he said.
Asked about former speculation that former leftist prime minister Alexis Tsipras is planning to form a new political party, Venizelos said, “In a democracy, anyone may aspire, hope, or even fantasize. But that does not mean the country will become governable or overcome its impasses that way.”
“Our biggest problem is that Greece has become ungovernable,” he added.
Venizelos also commented on the recent controversy surrounding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, saying that while all Greeks respect national symbols, “this does not mean you impose military control inside the Parliament’s courtyard or place part of the country’s main square under military supervision.”
Reflecting on the broader political landscape, he said PASOK deserves “greater appreciation for the burden it has carried” and described it as “the most useful collective political force the country needs.”
Venizelos dismissed rumors he may lead PASOK’s state ballot in the next general election, reiterating his decision to remain in what he calls “post-politics.”