In a recently unveiled autobiography, called Ithaki, the former prime minister Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism as he reflects on that turbulent period during Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Appointment
According to the ex-PM's account, Tsipras appointed the unorthodox academic Yanis Varoufakis to be the finance minister largely because of the latter's global profile along with Varoufakis's “extremely attractive” skills as a communicator.
“He was, in reality, more of a celebrity and less of an economic expert,” stated Tsipras.
Clashing Priorities
The former leader alleges how Varoufakis possessed his own agenda that involved promoting Varoufakis's books and experimenting with his own economic models using the nation rather than truly advocating its economic stability.
He noted how those negotiations to avoid bankruptcy became “not only a method to secure improved terms for the country. They became an experiment, a monumental chance to prove the truth of his economic theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid tense discussions, the country found itself dangerously close to exiting the eurozone.
On the line was not only the country's destiny but also the severe austerity policies required in exchange for bailout funds by international creditors.
Unsuccessful Options
Efforts to secure financing from other sources, such as a desperate appeal to Russia to buy Greek government bonds, went unanswered.
Helping the indebted country was equivalent to tossing cash in the trash-can, Putin reportedly told Tsipras in Moscow.
Referendum Followed by Reversal
In July 2015, those punitive conditions were put to a public vote, an action that plunged Europe into further crisis of identity.
Although the vote was carried decisively by voters who opposed the cuts, Tsipras had little option to reject its outcome then agree to a bailout package from foreign lenders which turned out to be even harsher.
Final Straw
Tsipras revealed that he started questioning his finance minister quite early on.
“He was the public image of the talks, the figure who drew media attention, who graced the front pages of publications the world over … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”
After the minister proposed a backup strategy involving establishing a parallel currency as well as distributing coupons to pensioners, the leader said he realised that it was game over and asked Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Rebuke
In the memoir, Tsipras concludes that his former ally demonstrated himself “unfit for a deal demanding complex and sensitive management.”
He also claimed how Varoufakis's aggressive style made him more and more alone with colleagues, put Greece at risk, and assisted hawks that were advocating Grexit.
The retelling of history has been met with anger along with stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas the former minister has so far kept a deafening silence regarding these claims.
