In a newly released autobiography, named Ithaki, the former premier Tsipras does not hold back while he examines that turbulent era during Greece's financial crisis.
A Controversial Appointment
In Tsipras's account, Tsipras chose that unorthodox economist Varoufakis as his treasury head primarily due to the latter's global profile and his highly compelling skills when it came to communicator.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more of a star and less of an economic expert,” wrote Tsipras.
Clashing Agendas
The former leader claims that his finance chief possessed a personal agenda which included promoting his publications as well as experimenting with his own theories using the nation instead of genuinely advocating the country's financial survival.
Tsipras explained how the discussions to stave off insolvency became “not only a method of achieving improved terms for the country. They became a test, an historic chance to prove the truth of Varoufakis's ideas.”
Critical Talks
During volatile negotiations, the country found itself dangerously close to leaving the eurozone.
On the line lay both the country's future but also those harsh austerity policies required in exchange for rescue loans from foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Efforts to find funds elsewhere, including an urgent appeal to Russia to buy Greek bonds, went unanswered.
Helping Greece was tantamount to throwing money in the trash-can, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed his Greek counterpart in Moscow.
Public Vote and Reversal
In July 2015, the excoriating conditions were put to a public vote, an action which threw Europe into a further crisis of identity.
Even though the referendum was carried decisively by those against the cuts, Tsipras had little option to reject its outcome and negotiate a bailout package from creditors which proved to be even harsher.
Final Straw
Tsipras revealed how he began to doubt his finance minister quite early on.
“Varoufakis was the face of negotiation, the figure who drew publicity, who graced the covers of magazines globally … it seemed he was enjoying the spotlight.”
After the minister proposed a contingency plan that included creating a secondary currency as well as distributing coupons to pensioners, the leader knew that it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Criticism
In the book, the author concludes that his former ally had proved himself to be “unfit for a deal demanding complex and sensitive handling.”
Tsipras also claimed how his confrontational approach made him more and more alone among peers, put Greece at risk, and helped hawks who were pushing for Grexit.
This account of events has been met with fury along with shock in some quarters, whereas the former minister has maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
