In a newly released autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- premier Tsipras spares no criticism while he reflects on the chaotic period of Greece's financial crisis.
An Unconventional Choice
In Tsipras's version, Tsipras selected the maverick economist Varoufakis to be his finance minister largely due to his worldwide fame and Varoufakis's “extremely attractive” abilities as a public orator.
“He was, in reality, more of a star rather than an economist,” recalled the 51-year-old.
Clashing Agendas
The former leader claims how his finance chief had a personal agenda that involved promoting his publications and experimenting with his own economic models on the nation rather than truly fighting for its financial survival.
He noted that the negotiations to avoid insolvency became “not just a way to secure improved terms for the country. They became a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the validity of Varoufakis's theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid rollercoaster discussions, the country found itself dangerously close to leaving the eurozone.
At stake was not only Greece's future and the severe cutbacks demanded in return for rescue loans from foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Options
Efforts to find funds elsewhere, including an urgent plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek bonds, went unanswered.
Helping Greece would be equivalent to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed Tsipras during their meeting.
Referendum and Reversal
In July 2015, those harsh bailout terms were subjected to a popular referendum, a move which threw the EU into further crisis of identity.
Even though the vote was won resoundingly by those against the cuts, the prime minister was forced but to ignore the result and agree to a rescue deal with foreign lenders that turned out to be tougher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed that he started questioning his finance minister relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the public image of negotiation, the figure who drew publicity, who appeared on the covers of publications the world over … he gave the impression he relished his new role.”
After Varoufakis proposed a contingency plan that included creating a secondary currency as well as distributing vouchers to pensioners, the leader knew that it was game over and asked Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”
Enduring Rebuke
Within the memoir, the author asserts how Varoufakis demonstrated himself to be “unfit for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate management.”
He also wrote how his aggressive approach made him more and more alone with colleagues, endangered the country, while assisted hardliners that were advocating Grexit.
This retelling of history has provoked anger along with shock among certain groups, while Varoufakis has maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
