Political directness

The death of Constantinos Mitsotakis Monday marks the end of a political order that played such an important role in the long and turbulent, yet also creative, period of Greek history that ensued in the aftermath of the Second World War.

The honorary president of the conservative New Democracy party was distinguished for his political acumen, his presence in Parliament and, mainly, for the candid and direct way that he always addressed the citizens of this country.

Moreover, developments over recent years have justified many of his predictions and also his many warnings, which were always aimed at helping Greece make the much-needed adjustment to the times and bringing the country into the ranks of modern European states.

The absence of men and women of his perception and stature on the Greek political stage is especially poignant right now.