In a recently unveiled memoir, called Ithaki, the former premier Tsipras spares no criticism as he examines that chaotic period of Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Choice
In Tsipras's account, he appointed that unorthodox academic Yanis Varoufakis as the finance minister primarily due to the latter's worldwide fame along with his “extremely attractive” skills when it came to communicator.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more like a personality rather than an economist,” stated the 51-year-old.
Clashing Agendas
The former leader suggests that Varoufakis possessed his own agenda which involved advancing Varoufakis's books as well as testing out his own game theories on the nation rather than genuinely advocating its financial survival.
Tsipras explained that the discussions to avoid bankruptcy became “not just a method to secure a better deal for Greece. They became an experiment, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's economic theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid volatile negotiations, the country found itself dangerously on the brink of exiting the single currency area.
On the line was not only the country's destiny and the severe austerity policies required in exchange for financial aid from foreign lenders.
Failed Options
Attempts to secure funds elsewhere, such as a desperate plea to Russia to purchase Greek government bonds, were rejected.
Helping Greece would be tantamount to tossing cash into the garbage, the Russian leader reportedly informed his Greek counterpart in Moscow.
Public Vote and Reversal
In July 2015, the punitive bailout terms were subjected to a public vote, an action that threw Europe into further crisis of identity.
Even though the referendum was won decisively by voters who opposed the cuts, Tsipras was forced but to reject its outcome and agree to a rescue deal from foreign lenders which proved to be even harsher.
Final Straw
Tsipras revealed that he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the man who drew publicity, who graced the covers of publications the world over … he gave the impression he relished his new role.”
After Varoufakis proposed a backup strategy involving creating a secondary currency as well as distributing coupons to pensioners, the leader said he realised it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”
Enduring Criticism
Within the memoir, Tsipras concludes that his former ally demonstrated himself to be “unfit for an agreement that required complex and delicate management.”
Tsipras further claimed that his aggressive style left him increasingly isolated with colleagues, put Greece at risk, while assisted hawks who were pushing for Grexit.
This account of history has been met with fury along with shock among certain groups, while the former minister has so far kept a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
