In a freshly published memoir, called Ithaki, the former premier Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism as he examines that turbulent period during Greece's economic turmoil.
An Unconventional Choice
According to Tsipras's version, he selected that unorthodox academic Yanis Varoufakis as his finance minister primarily due to the latter's global profile along with Varoufakis's highly compelling abilities as a speaker.
“He was, truthfully, more like a star rather than an economist,” stated the 51-year-old.
Clashing Priorities
The former leader claims that Varoufakis had his own agenda which involved promoting Varoufakis's publications as well as testing out his economic models using Greece rather than genuinely advocating the country's financial survival.
Tsipras wrote how the negotiations to avoid bankruptcy became “not just a way to secure improved terms for the country. They became a test, a monumental chance to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's economic theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid rollercoaster negotiations, Greece found itself perilously on the brink of leaving the eurozone.
At stake lay not only Greece's destiny and those harsh cutbacks demanded in exchange for rescue loans from foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Options
Attempts to secure funds elsewhere, such as a desperate plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek bonds, went unanswered.
Assisting Greece would be equivalent to tossing cash in the trash-can, Putin reportedly told Tsipras during their meeting.
Public Vote Followed by Reversal
In July 2015, those punitive bailout terms were put to a popular referendum, a move that plunged Europe into further existential crisis.
Although the referendum was won decisively by those against the cuts, Tsipras had little option to reject its outcome and negotiate a rescue deal from creditors which turned out to be more severe.
Breaking Point
The ex-PM claimed how he started questioning his finance minister relatively soon.
“He was the face of the talks, the man who attracted media attention, who graced the front pages of magazines the world over … he gave the impression he was enjoying his new role.”
After Varoufakis outlined a contingency plan involving establishing a secondary currency as well as issuing coupons to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised it was the end and asked him: “Can you be serious?”
Enduring Rebuke
In the book, the author asserts that his former ally had proved himself “unfit for an agreement demanding complex and delicate management.”
Tsipras also claimed that his confrontational approach made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, endangered the country, while assisted hardliners that were advocating Grexit.
This account of history has been met with anger along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas the former minister has so far kept a deafening silence regarding these claims.
