In a newly released autobiography, named Ithaki, the ex- leader Tsipras spares no criticism while he revisits the turbulent period of Greece's economic turmoil.
An Unconventional Appointment
In the ex-PM's version, Tsipras selected that unorthodox academic Varoufakis to be his treasury head mainly due to his worldwide fame and Varoufakis's very persuasive skills as a speaker.
“He was, actually, more like a star and less of an economic expert,” stated Tsipras.
Conflicting Agendas
The former leader suggests that his finance chief had his own agenda which included promoting Varoufakis's publications and testing out his game theories on Greece instead of truly fighting for its economic stability.
Tsipras noted that the talks to avoid bankruptcy became “not just a method to secure improved terms for the country. They became a test, an historic chance to demonstrate the validity of his theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid tense discussions, the country came perilously on the brink of exiting the single currency area.
At stake was not only the country's destiny but also those punishing austerity policies required in return for rescue loans from foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Options
Attempts to secure financing elsewhere, including a desperate plea to Russia to buy Greek bonds, were rejected.
Helping the indebted country would be equivalent to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly informed his Greek counterpart in Moscow.
Public Vote Followed by Reversal
That summer, the harsh conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, an action that plunged the EU into a further crisis of identity.
Although the vote was carried resoundingly by those against the cuts, the prime minister had little option but to reject its outcome and negotiate a bailout package from foreign lenders that turned out to be even harsher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM revealed that he started questioning Varoufakis quite early on.
“He was the face of negotiation, the man who drew publicity, who graced the front pages of publications globally … it seemed he relished the spotlight.”
After the minister outlined a contingency plan involving creating a parallel currency and distributing coupons to retirees, the leader said he realised that it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Can you be serious?”
Lasting Criticism
Within the memoir, Tsipras asserts how his former ally had proved himself to be “unfit for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate handling.”
He further claimed how his aggressive approach left him more and more alone among peers, put Greece at risk, and assisted hardliners that were advocating Grexit.
This retelling of history has been met with anger along with stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas the former minister has maintained a deafening silence on the matter.
