As we leave Greece after 3-1/2 months, I would like to make a prediction based on all the opinions I have heard and read: the Presidential candidate whom the government will propose will get at least 180 votes (or whatever lesser number is required in the final round)!
Why?
I have been doing some thinking. I have tried to put myself into the shoes of an MP who looks at his monthly paycheck and thinks of his family of five. My understanding is that an MP earns about 100.000 Euro per year. So, if the current legislative period runs out its full term, I would be looking at about 150.000 Euro for me and my family. But if it comes to new elections, I might be looking at — nothing.
Well, MPs with backbone and principles would certainly not think that way but there should be enough MPs of the other kind to make up the necessary number of votes.