In a newly released autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- leader Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism while he revisits the chaotic era during Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Appointment
In Tsipras's recollections, Tsipras chose that unorthodox academic Varoufakis as his finance minister mainly because of his international reputation along with Varoufakis's very persuasive skills when it came to speaker.
“He was, in reality, more of a celebrity rather than an economic expert,” wrote Tsipras.
Conflicting Priorities
The former leader suggests how Varoufakis had a personal agenda which involved advancing Varoufakis's books and testing out his own game theories on the nation rather than truly fighting for its financial survival.
Tsipras explained that the talks to prevent insolvency were “not just a way of achieving a better deal for Greece. They were a test, an historic chance to demonstrate the validity of Varoufakis's theories.”
High-Stakes Negotiations
During volatile discussions, the country came perilously close to exiting the eurozone.
At stake was not only the country's future but also the severe cutbacks required in return for rescue loans by international creditors.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Efforts to find financing elsewhere, including an urgent plea to Russia to buy Greek bonds, were rejected.
Helping Greece would be equivalent to throwing money in the trash-can, Putin reportedly informed Tsipras during their meeting.
Referendum and U-Turn
In July 2015, those harsh conditions were put to a popular referendum, a move that plunged Europe into deeper crisis of identity.
Although the referendum was carried decisively by those against the cuts, the prime minister was forced to reject its outcome then negotiate a bailout package from creditors that proved to be more severe.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed how he started questioning his finance minister quite early on.
“Varoufakis was the public image of negotiation, the man who drew media attention, who appeared on the covers of magazines globally … he gave the impression he relished his new role.”
When Varoufakis proposed a backup strategy that included creating a parallel currency as well as issuing vouchers to retirees, Tsipras knew that it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”
Enduring Rebuke
Within the book, Tsipras concludes that Varoufakis demonstrated himself “unsuitable for an agreement that required complex and delicate management.”
He also wrote that Varoufakis's aggressive style left him more and more alone among peers, endangered the country, while assisted hardliners who were pushing for Grexit.
The account of history has been met with anger and stunned disbelief among certain groups, while the former minister has maintained a deafening silence regarding these claims.
