In a recently unveiled memoir, named Ithaki, the former prime minister Tsipras does not hold back as he examines the turbulent era during Greece's debt drama.
An Unconventional Appointment
As per the ex-PM's version, Tsipras selected that unorthodox academic Varoufakis to be the finance minister primarily due to his global profile along with his “extremely attractive” abilities as a public orator.
“In reality, he was, truthfully, more of a star rather than an economic expert,” recalled the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Priorities
The former leader alleges how his finance chief had his own agenda that involved promoting his publications as well as experimenting with his game theories using the nation instead of genuinely fighting for the country's financial survival.
Tsipras noted that the negotiations to avoid bankruptcy were “not only a method to secure a better deal for Greece. They were an experiment, an historic chance to prove the truth of his ideas.”
Critical Talks
During tense discussions, Greece came dangerously on the brink of exiting the eurozone.
On the line was not only Greece's future and the punishing austerity measures required in return for financial aid by international creditors.
Failed Alternatives
Efforts to secure funds from other sources, including a desperate appeal to Russia to purchase Greek government bonds, were rejected.
Assisting the indebted country was tantamount to tossing cash into the garbage, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed Tsipras during their meeting.
Public Vote Followed by U-Turn
In July 2015, the harsh conditions were subjected to a public vote, an action which threw the EU into deeper crisis of identity.
Although the vote was won decisively by voters who opposed austerity, the prime minister was forced to reject its outcome then agree to a bailout package from foreign lenders which turned out to be even harsher.
Breaking Point
Tsipras claimed how he began to doubt his finance minister quite early on.
“He was the face of negotiation, the man who drew media attention, who appeared on the front pages of magazines globally … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.”
After the minister proposed a contingency plan involving establishing a parallel currency as well as issuing vouchers to retirees, Tsipras said he realised it was game over questioning him: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Criticism
In the memoir, the author concludes that Varoufakis demonstrated himself to be “unfit for an agreement that required intricate and sensitive handling.”
Tsipras further claimed that Varoufakis's confrontational approach left him increasingly isolated among peers, put Greece at risk, and assisted hardliners who were advocating Grexit.
This retelling of events has provoked fury along with shock in some quarters, while the former minister has so far kept a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
