Polakis: A hybrid arrangement

One of the prevailing illusions within SYRIZA during the leftist party's time in government was the belief that its rise and prominence in the political arena stemmed from an ideological and political transformation within Greek society. This transformation was expected to eventually sweep through Europe and shift the balance of power in favor of the Left.

Over time, those who chose to ignore reality were forced to confront it and reluctantly accept that SYRIZA's momentum was largely due to the divisive, harsh and aggressive rhetoric adopted during the Greek debt crisis, which resonated with the lower classes hardest hit by the economic downturn.

Recent developments involving outspoken SYRIZA MP and former minister Pavlos Polakis only serve to reinforce the notion that, on one hand, "you reap what you sow," and on the other, the party's remaining core supporters,...