In a freshly published autobiography, named Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism while he examines that turbulent period of Greece's financial crisis.
A Controversial Appointment
In the ex-PM's account, Tsipras chose that unorthodox economist Varoufakis as his treasury head mainly due to his international reputation and Varoufakis's “extremely attractive” abilities as a communicator.
“He was, truthfully, more of a celebrity rather than an economic expert,” stated the 51-year-old.
Clashing Priorities
The former leader alleges that his finance chief possessed his own agenda that included advancing his books as well as testing out his theories using the nation rather than genuinely advocating its financial survival.
He explained that those discussions to avoid bankruptcy were “not just a way of achieving improved terms for the country. They were a test, an historic opportunity to demonstrate the validity of his ideas.”
Critical Negotiations
Amid rollercoaster discussions, Greece found itself dangerously close to leaving the eurozone.
At stake lay not only the country's destiny and the severe cutbacks required in exchange for bailout funds from international creditors.
Unsuccessful Options
Attempts to secure financing elsewhere, such as an urgent plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek government bonds, fell on stony ground.
Helping the indebted country would be equivalent to throwing money into the garbage, the Russian leader reportedly informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Public Vote Followed by U-Turn
In July 2015, those punitive conditions were put to a public vote, an action which plunged the EU into further crisis of identity.
Although the referendum was carried decisively by voters who opposed the cuts, the prime minister was forced but to reject its outcome then negotiate a rescue deal from creditors that proved to be even harsher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM revealed how he started questioning Varoufakis quite early on.
“He was the face of negotiation, the figure who attracted media attention, who graced the front pages of magazines the world over … it seemed he relished the spotlight.”
After Varoufakis proposed a backup strategy that included establishing a parallel currency as well as distributing coupons to retirees, the leader said he realised that it was game over questioning him: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Rebuke
In the book, the author concludes that Varoufakis had proved himself “unfit for an agreement that required intricate and sensitive handling.”
Tsipras further claimed how his aggressive approach left him increasingly isolated among peers, put Greece at risk, and assisted hawks that were pushing for Grexit.
This account of history has provoked anger along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas the former minister has so far maintained a deafening silence regarding these claims.
