In a freshly published autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- premier Tsipras spares no criticism as he revisits the chaotic period of Greece's debt drama.
An Unconventional Choice
In the ex-PM's account, he appointed that maverick economist Varoufakis as the finance minister primarily because of the latter's international reputation along with his highly compelling abilities when it came to speaker.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more of a personality rather than an economist,” recalled Tsipras.
Clashing Priorities
The former leader suggests that Varoufakis had a personal agenda that included promoting Varoufakis's books as well as testing out his own theories on the nation rather than genuinely advocating its economic stability.
He wrote that the discussions to avoid bankruptcy were “not just a way to secure improved terms for Greece. They were a test, an historic chance to demonstrate the validity of his ideas.”
Critical Negotiations
During volatile discussions, the country found itself dangerously on the brink of exiting the eurozone.
On the line lay not only Greece's future but also those harsh austerity policies required in return for financial aid from foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Efforts to secure funds elsewhere, including an urgent appeal to Russia to purchase Greek bonds, went unanswered.
Assisting Greece would be tantamount to throwing money into the garbage, the Russian leader is reputed to have told Tsipras in Moscow.
Referendum Followed by U-Turn
In July 2015, those punitive conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, a move which plunged the EU into further existential crisis.
Even though the vote was carried decisively by voters against austerity, Tsipras was forced to ignore the result and negotiate a bailout package with foreign lenders which proved to be tougher.
Breaking Point
The ex-PM revealed how he started questioning his finance minister relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the public image of the talks, the figure who drew publicity, who graced the front pages of magazines the world over … it seemed he relished the spotlight.”
After the minister proposed a contingency plan that included establishing a parallel currency as well as issuing coupons to retirees, the leader said he realised it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”
Lasting Rebuke
Within the memoir, Tsipras concludes that his former ally had proved himself to be “unsuitable for an agreement demanding complex and delicate management.”
Tsipras further wrote that his confrontational style made him more and more alone among peers, endangered the country, and assisted hardliners that were pushing for Grexit.
The retelling of events has been met with fury along with shock in some quarters, while Varoufakis has so far kept a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
