In a newly released autobiography, named Ithaki, the former premier Tsipras spares no criticism as he examines the chaotic period of Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Appointment
As per the ex-PM's version, Tsipras selected that maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis to be his finance minister largely because of the latter's international reputation along with Varoufakis's very persuasive skills as a speaker.
“He was, truthfully, more like a star rather than an economist,” wrote the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Agendas
The former leader suggests how Varoufakis had his own agenda that involved promoting his publications and testing out his economic models on the nation instead of truly fighting for its economic stability.
Tsipras wrote that the discussions to avoid bankruptcy were “not only a method of achieving improved terms for Greece. They were an experiment, a monumental chance to demonstrate the validity of Varoufakis's theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid rollercoaster discussions, the country came perilously close to exiting the eurozone.
At stake lay both Greece's destiny but also the harsh cutbacks required in return for financial aid by international creditors.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Efforts to find funds elsewhere, including an urgent appeal to the Kremlin to purchase Greek bonds, went unanswered.
Assisting the indebted country was equivalent to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly informed Tsipras during their meeting.
Public Vote and U-Turn
That summer, the harsh bailout terms were subjected to a popular referendum, a move that plunged Europe into further crisis of identity.
Even though the vote was carried resoundingly by voters who opposed austerity, the prime minister had little option but to reject its outcome and agree to a bailout package from foreign lenders which proved to be tougher.
Final Straw
Tsipras revealed how he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the face of negotiation, the man who drew publicity, who graced the front pages of magazines globally … it seemed he relished his new role.”
When Varoufakis proposed a contingency plan involving establishing a parallel currency and distributing vouchers to pensioners, the leader said he realised that it was game over and asked Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Criticism
Within the memoir, Tsipras asserts that his former ally had proved himself to be “unfit for a deal demanding intricate and sensitive management.”
He further claimed that Varoufakis's aggressive approach made him more and more alone among peers, endangered the country, and helped hawks that were advocating Grexit.
This retelling of events has provoked fury along with shock in some quarters, while the former minister has maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
