In a newly released personal account, named Ithaki, the ex- leader Tsipras does not hold back as he reflects on the chaotic era during Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Appointment
In the ex-PM's account, Tsipras appointed that maverick academic Varoufakis as his treasury head mainly due to his international reputation and Varoufakis's highly compelling skills as a communicator.
“He was, truthfully, more of a star rather than an economist,” stated the 51-year-old.
Clashing Agendas
Tsipras suggests how his finance chief had a personal agenda that involved advancing his books as well as experimenting with his economic models on Greece rather than truly fighting for the country's economic stability.
He wrote how the negotiations to avoid insolvency became “not just a method of achieving a better deal for the country. They were a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's economic theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid volatile negotiations, Greece came perilously close to leaving the single currency area.
At stake was not only the country's future and those severe austerity policies required in exchange for financial aid from foreign lenders.
Failed Alternatives
Efforts to secure funds elsewhere, including a desperate appeal to Russia to purchase Greek bonds, fell on stony ground.
Assisting the indebted country would be equivalent to throwing money into the garbage, Putin is reputed to have told Tsipras during their meeting.
Referendum and Reversal
That summer, the harsh conditions were subjected to a public vote, an action that threw Europe into a deeper crisis of identity.
Although the vote was carried resoundingly by those against austerity, Tsipras had little option to reject its outcome and agree to a bailout package with foreign lenders that proved to be more severe.
Breaking Point
The ex-PM revealed how he began to doubt Varoufakis relatively soon.
“He was the face of the talks, the figure who drew publicity, who graced the covers of magazines globally … it seemed he relished his new role.”
When the minister proposed a contingency plan involving establishing a secondary currency as well as issuing coupons to retirees, the leader knew it was game over questioning him: “Can you be serious?”
Lasting Criticism
In the book, the author asserts how his former ally demonstrated himself “unfit for an agreement demanding intricate and sensitive handling.”
He also claimed how his aggressive approach made him more and more alone among peers, endangered the country, while assisted hardliners that were advocating Grexit.
This retelling of events has been met with anger along with shock in some quarters, while the former minister has maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
