In a freshly published autobiography, named Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Tsipras does not hold back as he revisits the chaotic era during Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Choice
In the ex-PM's recollections, Tsipras chose the unorthodox academic Yanis Varoufakis as the finance minister largely due to his worldwide fame and Varoufakis's very persuasive skills when it came to speaker.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more of a personality rather than an economic expert,” stated Tsipras.
Conflicting Agendas
Tsipras alleges how his finance chief possessed his own motives which included advancing Varoufakis's publications and testing out his theories using the nation instead of truly fighting for the country's economic stability.
Tsipras noted how those discussions to avoid bankruptcy became “not only a way of achieving improved terms for the country. They became a test, a monumental chance to demonstrate the truth of his economic theories.”
High-Stakes Negotiations
Amid tense negotiations, the country came dangerously on the brink of exiting the eurozone.
On the line lay not only the country's future and the punishing austerity policies required in return for financial aid by international creditors.
Failed Options
Attempts to secure funds from other sources, such as an urgent plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek government bonds, went unanswered.
Assisting Greece would be equivalent to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Referendum and U-Turn
That summer, those punitive conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, an action which plunged Europe into further crisis of identity.
Even though the referendum was won decisively by those who opposed austerity, the prime minister had little option but to reject its outcome then agree to a bailout package with creditors which proved to be tougher.
Breaking Point
Tsipras revealed that he started questioning Varoufakis quite early on.
“Varoufakis was the face of negotiation, the man who attracted media attention, who appeared on the covers of publications globally … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”
When the minister outlined a contingency plan that included creating a parallel currency as well as issuing vouchers to retirees, the leader said he realised that it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Rebuke
Within the memoir, the author asserts that Varoufakis had proved himself “unsuitable for an agreement demanding complex and sensitive management.”
He further claimed how his confrontational style made him more and more alone among peers, put Greece at risk, and helped hawks who were pushing for Grexit.
This retelling of history has provoked anger and stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas Varoufakis has so far maintained a deafening silence regarding these claims.
