In a freshly published autobiography, named Ithaki, the ex- premier Tsipras spares no criticism while he revisits the turbulent era of Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Choice
As per the ex-PM's account, he appointed that maverick academic Yanis Varoufakis to be the finance minister mainly because of his global profile and his highly compelling abilities as a public orator.
“He was, in reality, more like a celebrity and less of an economist,” stated Tsipras.
Clashing Agendas
The former leader claims how Varoufakis had a personal motives that included promoting Varoufakis's publications and testing out his own theories using the nation rather than truly fighting for its economic stability.
Tsipras wrote that the discussions to prevent bankruptcy became “not only a way of achieving a better deal for Greece. They were a test, an historic chance to prove the validity of his theories.”
High-Stakes Talks
Amid volatile negotiations, the country found itself dangerously close to leaving the single currency area.
On the line was both the country's destiny and the severe austerity measures required in return for financial aid from foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Attempts to find funds from other sources, such as a desperate appeal to Russia to buy Greek government bonds, were rejected.
Helping Greece would be tantamount to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly informed Tsipras during their meeting.
Public Vote Followed by U-Turn
In July 2015, the excoriating conditions were subjected to a public vote, a move that threw Europe into further crisis of identity.
Although the vote was carried resoundingly by those who opposed the cuts, the prime minister had little option but to reject its outcome then agree to a rescue deal from creditors that turned out to be tougher.
Final Straw
Tsipras claimed that he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the figure who attracted media attention, who graced the front pages of publications globally … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.”
When the minister outlined a backup strategy involving creating a secondary currency and issuing coupons to retirees, Tsipras knew that it was game over and asked him: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Rebuke
In the book, the author concludes that his former ally demonstrated himself “unsuitable for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate handling.”
He further claimed how his confrontational style made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, endangered the country, while helped hawks who were pushing for a Greek exit from the euro.
This retelling of history has been met with anger along with shock in some quarters, while Varoufakis has kept a deafening silence on the matter.
