Within his freshly published memoir, named Ithaki, the ex- leader Tsipras does not hold back while he examines that turbulent period of Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Choice
According to the ex-PM's account, Tsipras appointed that maverick economist Varoufakis as his finance minister largely because of the latter's global profile along with his very persuasive abilities when it came to public orator.
“He was, truthfully, more like a celebrity rather than an economic expert,” stated the 51-year-old.
Clashing Agendas
The former leader alleges that Varoufakis had his own motives that involved advancing his publications as well as testing out his own game theories on Greece instead of genuinely advocating its financial survival.
He explained that those negotiations to prevent bankruptcy were “not just a method to secure improved terms for Greece. They became a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the truth of his economic theories.”
Critical Negotiations
Amid tense negotiations, Greece came dangerously on the brink of leaving the single currency area.
On the line lay not only the country's destiny but also those harsh cutbacks required in return for financial aid by foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Options
Attempts to find funds from other sources, including an urgent plea to Russia to buy Greek government bonds, were rejected.
Helping the indebted country would be equivalent to tossing cash into the garbage, Putin is reputed to have informed Tsipras during their meeting.
Public Vote Followed by Reversal
That summer, the punitive conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, an action which threw the EU into further crisis of identity.
Even though the vote was won decisively by voters against the cuts, Tsipras had little option to ignore the result then negotiate a bailout package from foreign lenders that proved to be more severe.
Breaking Point
The ex-PM claimed how he began to doubt his finance minister relatively soon.
“He was the face of the talks, the figure who attracted media attention, who graced the front pages of publications the world over … it seemed he relished the spotlight.”
When the minister outlined a contingency plan that included establishing a parallel currency as well as issuing coupons to pensioners, Tsipras knew that it was game over questioning him: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Criticism
Within the book, Tsipras asserts that his former ally demonstrated himself “unsuitable for a deal that required intricate and delicate management.”
Tsipras also claimed that Varoufakis's aggressive style left him increasingly isolated among peers, endangered the country, and helped hardliners who were pushing for Grexit.
The account of events has been met with anger along with stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas the former minister has maintained a deafening silence regarding these claims.
