Within his recently unveiled autobiography, named Ithaki, the former leader Tsipras does not hold back while he reflects on the turbulent period of Greece's financial crisis.
A Controversial Appointment
As per the ex-PM's recollections, he appointed that maverick academic Yanis Varoufakis to be the treasury head largely due to his global profile along with Varoufakis's highly compelling abilities when it came to speaker.
“In reality, he was, actually, more like a star and less of an economist,” stated the 51-year-old.
Clashing Priorities
Tsipras alleges that Varoufakis had a personal agenda which involved promoting his publications and experimenting with his economic models on the nation instead of truly fighting for its financial survival.
Tsipras explained how those discussions to avoid insolvency were “not only a method to secure improved terms for the country. They were a test, an historic opportunity to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's economic theories.”
High-Stakes Talks
During volatile discussions, the country found itself perilously on the brink of exiting the eurozone.
On the line lay both the country's destiny but also those severe cutbacks required in exchange for bailout funds from international creditors.
Failed Options
Attempts to secure funds elsewhere, such as a desperate plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek bonds, were rejected.
Helping Greece would be equivalent to throwing money in the trash-can, Putin reportedly told Tsipras in Moscow.
Referendum and U-Turn
That summer, the harsh conditions were put to a public vote, an action which threw Europe into further crisis of identity.
Although the vote was carried resoundingly by those who opposed austerity, the prime minister had little option but to ignore the result then negotiate a bailout package from creditors which turned out to be even harsher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM revealed that he began to doubt Varoufakis quite early on.
“Varoufakis was the public image of the talks, the man who drew media attention, who graced the covers of publications globally … it seemed he was enjoying the spotlight.”
After the minister outlined a contingency plan involving establishing a secondary currency as well as distributing coupons to pensioners, Tsipras knew it was game over and asked Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Rebuke
Within the book, Tsipras asserts how his former ally demonstrated himself “unfit for an agreement that required intricate and sensitive management.”
He further wrote that Varoufakis's aggressive approach made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, put Greece at risk, and helped hardliners who were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
The account of events has provoked fury and stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas the former minister has kept a deafening silence on the matter.
