Within his newly released autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Tsipras does not hold back while he revisits the turbulent period of Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Choice
In the ex-PM's version, Tsipras appointed the maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis to be his treasury head primarily due to the latter's global profile and his highly compelling abilities as a communicator.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more like a personality rather than an economic expert,” stated the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Priorities
The former leader alleges how Varoufakis possessed a personal agenda that included promoting Varoufakis's books as well as testing out his theories on the nation instead of genuinely advocating the country's economic stability.
He wrote how the negotiations to prevent bankruptcy were “not just a method to secure improved terms for Greece. They became a test, an historic chance to prove the truth of Varoufakis's theories.”
High-Stakes Talks
Amid volatile negotiations, Greece came perilously on the brink of leaving the eurozone.
At stake lay not only the country's destiny and the punishing austerity measures demanded in exchange for bailout funds from foreign lenders.
Failed Alternatives
Attempts to secure financing elsewhere, including an urgent appeal to Russia to buy Greek bonds, went unanswered.
Helping Greece would be equivalent to throwing money into the garbage, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed Tsipras in Moscow.
Public Vote Followed by U-Turn
In July 2015, those harsh bailout terms were put to a public vote, an action that plunged Europe into further crisis of identity.
Although the referendum was won resoundingly by those against austerity, Tsipras had little option to reject its outcome then agree to a bailout package with creditors that proved to be even harsher.
Breaking Point
Tsipras claimed that he began to doubt Varoufakis quite early on.
“He was the face of the talks, the man who attracted publicity, who graced the covers of publications globally … it seemed he relished his new role.”
After the minister proposed a backup strategy involving establishing a secondary currency as well as distributing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Can you be serious?”
Lasting Criticism
Within the book, the author asserts that his former ally demonstrated himself “unsuitable for an agreement demanding intricate and sensitive handling.”
He also wrote how his confrontational approach left him increasingly isolated among peers, put Greece at risk, and assisted hawks that were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
This account of events has provoked fury along with stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas Varoufakis has so far kept a deafening silence regarding these claims.
