In a freshly published autobiography, called Ithaki, the former leader Tsipras spares no criticism while he examines that turbulent period of Greece's debt drama.
An Unconventional Appointment
As per Tsipras's version, Tsipras appointed the maverick economist Varoufakis to be his finance minister largely because of his global profile along with his very persuasive abilities when it came to public orator.
“In reality, he was, truthfully, more like a celebrity and less of an economic expert,” recalled Tsipras.
Clashing Agendas
Tsipras claims that his finance chief possessed a personal motives that involved promoting Varoufakis's books as well as experimenting with his own game theories on Greece instead of genuinely advocating its economic stability.
Tsipras explained how the discussions to prevent bankruptcy were “not just a method of achieving improved terms for Greece. They became a test, an historic opportunity to demonstrate the validity of his theories.”
Critical Negotiations
During volatile discussions, Greece found itself dangerously on the brink of leaving the single currency area.
On the line lay both the country's destiny but also the harsh cutbacks required in return for rescue loans from foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Efforts to secure financing from other sources, such as a desperate plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek bonds, went unanswered.
Helping the indebted country was tantamount to throwing money in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly told Tsipras during their meeting.
Public Vote and Reversal
That summer, those harsh conditions were put to a public vote, an action that plunged Europe into a further existential crisis.
Although the vote was carried decisively by voters against the cuts, the prime minister had little option to reject its outcome then agree to a rescue deal from creditors that proved to be more severe.
Final Straw
The ex-PM revealed that he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.
“He was the face of negotiation, the figure who drew publicity, who appeared on the front pages of magazines the world over … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.”
When Varoufakis outlined a backup strategy that included creating a secondary currency as well as issuing coupons to pensioners, Tsipras knew it was the end questioning him: “Are you serious?”
Lasting Rebuke
In the memoir, the author asserts how his former ally had proved himself “unsuitable for a deal demanding complex and sensitive management.”
Tsipras further wrote how his aggressive style made him increasingly isolated among peers, put Greece at risk, while assisted hawks that were advocating Grexit.
This account of history has been met with anger and shock among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has kept a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
