As if the loan payment on Friday was not enough for the Greek government problem, Alexis Tsipras administration received a severe blow in parliament after nearly a third of Syriza lawmakers demanded to cancel the appointment of Elena Panaritis as the Greek representative to the International Monetary Fund.
In a letter to the prime minister, 44 of the 149 government MPs expressed their rejection of the nomination of Panaritis and requested his retirement, arguing that their positions differ with anti austerity Syriza program.
His election caused controversy among members of the group because of its links with the socialist Pasok party between 2009 and 2012, including the period Negotiating the first rescue.
Panaritis, who is seen as close to Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis, had backed the aid package granted to the country, which among other requirements demanded drastic cuts in spending and higher taxes.
“As never asked for this position and I accepted only as to help the government with my experience in how the IMF works, it is impossible for me to accept the appointment amid negative reactions Syriza legislators, “said the economist quoted by Reuters.
” I want to thank the members of the evaluation committee of government that they chose me to represent the country to the IMF, in particular Finance Minister, Yanis Varoufakis, and Economy Minister George Stathakis, with whom I work tirelessly in the long negotiations with the creditors, “he added.
The decision of the former World Bank official highlighted the tensions within the party as authorities try to reach an agreement with the IMF and the creditors of the euro area
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