Greek PM Mitsotakis must brace for ‘foul’ weather this autumn, as three key issues that have been simmering in the background are expected to come to a head in the coming months, demanding his attention, according to an article in TO VIMA.

The polticial commentary notes that, until now, the PM has managed his way through the seemingly endless whirlwind of problems, including inflation, fires, a more ‘modest’ offering than in the past at the upcoming Thessaloniki Fair (TIF), the buttressing of the right wing of New Democracy and more.

However, TO VIMA predicts PM Mitsotakis will face several ‘storm fronts’ this autumn, including: the country’s failing national health system, deepening cracks in the country’s economic situation, problems within his own New Democracy party, and possibly a stronger political opposition.

Greece’s Failing National Health System (NHS)

TO VIMA points out that the country’s NHS is turning into a ‘black hole’ characterized by a lack of doctors and ambulences, and citizens who are forced to pay for private medical care. Moreover, the collaboration between the public and privaate sector does not seem to be baring fruit and faces strong opposition from public hospital staff.

Cracks are Appearing in Greece’s Economy

The boost in finacial support that Greece received for its troubled economy after COVID is no longer available, and the country’s financial shortcomings after a decade of economy crisis are rearing their head, says TO VIMA.

Voters are realizing that foreign investments are not enough to lift the economy, and that digitization is not a panacea for poor governance. An increase in minimum wage has not been enough to cover the costs of inflation, prohibitively high housing costs and the ongoing impact of climate change and natural disasters.

Problems in New Democracy’s Ranks

PM Mitsotakis’ support for same-sex marriage and “Friendly Relations” with Turkey has caused a rift within his own political party, which traditionally has included a conservative and right-wing faction.

TO VIMA points out that there is not mechanism within New Democracy to address political differences within the party, which has led exasperated party members to voice their disagreement on social media.

The Threat of a Stronger Opposition

The political scene will be shaped this October, following the congress of leftist opposition political party SYRIZA and PASOK elections.

SYRIZA, according to the article at TO VIMA, continues to struggle to find its footing under the leadership of Kasselakis.

But it isn’t out of the question that developments with PASOK may lead to a broader and stronger central-left party.

If this happens, then PM Mitsotakis will be under pressure to face the  demands of the Greek public, which seems to be under the process of reshaping, says TO VIMA.