Opposition fails to impress

The abstract and often populist pledges made by PASOK, the socialist main opposition party, relating to the Greek economy and public safety are a cause of great disappointment.

Under the leadership of George Papandreou, PASOK has so far failed to convince the public that it actually grasps the true magnitude of the problems the country is presently facing.

At the same time, it refuses to make any kind of commitment to the electorate that it would introduce feasible, technocratic solutions if it comes to power.

One argument that is frequently put forward is that the socialists have many experienced politicians that could fill the key government posts, but this alone does not suffice to persuade voters that PASOK is ready to govern.

Greek voters are too mature to be charmed by populist sound bites and groundless promises. After all, recent history has shown that you can exercise opposition without planning and preparation, but you cannot govern without these, particularly at a time of crisis.