In a newly released memoir, named Ithaki, the ex- leader Tsipras does not hold back while he examines the chaotic period during Greece's financial crisis.
A Controversial Choice
According to the ex-PM's version, he appointed the unorthodox academic Varoufakis as the treasury head largely because of the latter's international reputation and Varoufakis's highly compelling abilities as a speaker.
“He was, in reality, more of a celebrity rather than an economic expert,” wrote Tsipras.
Clashing Agendas
The former leader claims how his finance chief possessed a personal agenda which involved promoting Varoufakis's books as well as experimenting with his own game theories on Greece instead of genuinely fighting for the country's financial survival.
Tsipras wrote that the negotiations to prevent bankruptcy were “not just a method to secure a better deal for the country. They became an experiment, an historic chance to demonstrate the truth of his theories.”
Critical Negotiations
Amid rollercoaster discussions, Greece came perilously on the brink of leaving the eurozone.
On the line lay both the country's destiny and the harsh austerity policies demanded in exchange for rescue loans by foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Options
Efforts to secure financing from other sources, including a desperate plea to Russia to buy Greek government bonds, went unanswered.
Assisting the indebted country was tantamount to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader is reputed to have told Tsipras during their meeting.
Referendum and U-Turn
In July 2015, those harsh bailout terms were subjected to a popular referendum, a move which plunged Europe into further existential crisis.
Although the vote was carried resoundingly by voters who opposed the cuts, the prime minister was forced to reject its outcome then negotiate a bailout package with creditors which proved to be even harsher.
Breaking Point
Tsipras claimed how he started questioning Varoufakis quite early on.
“He was the face of negotiation, the man who drew publicity, who graced the covers of magazines globally … it seemed he relished the spotlight.”
When the minister outlined a contingency plan involving establishing a parallel currency and distributing vouchers to retirees, the leader knew it was the end and asked him: “Can you be serious?”
Lasting Rebuke
Within the memoir, Tsipras asserts how his former ally demonstrated himself “unsuitable for a deal demanding complex and delicate management.”
He further claimed that his aggressive style made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, endangered the country, while assisted hawks who were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
This account of events has been met with fury along with shock among certain groups, whereas the former minister has kept a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
