Within his newly released autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- premier Tsipras does not hold back as he examines the turbulent period of Greece's financial crisis.
An Unconventional Choice
According to the ex-PM's version, he selected that maverick economist Varoufakis as his treasury head mainly because of the latter's global profile along with his very persuasive abilities when it came to communicator.
“He was, actually, more like a personality rather than an economist,” stated the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Agendas
The former leader claims that Varoufakis had his own agenda which involved promoting his books as well as testing out his economic models on Greece rather than truly fighting for its financial survival.
Tsipras wrote how the discussions to prevent insolvency became “not only a method of achieving improved terms for the country. They became an experiment, an historic opportunity to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's economic theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid tense negotiations, Greece found itself perilously on the brink of exiting the single currency area.
On the line lay both the country's future and those punishing austerity policies demanded in exchange for rescue loans from international creditors.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Attempts to secure funds from other sources, such as a desperate plea to Russia to purchase Greek bonds, fell on stony ground.
Assisting Greece would be tantamount to throwing money into the garbage, Putin is reputed to have informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Referendum Followed by U-Turn
In July 2015, those punitive bailout terms were put to a public vote, a move that threw the EU into a deeper crisis of identity.
Even though the referendum was won resoundingly by those against austerity, Tsipras had little option to reject its outcome and negotiate a rescue deal with creditors which turned out to be more severe.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed how he began to doubt Varoufakis quite early on.
“He was the face of the talks, the man who attracted publicity, who graced the front pages of publications the world over … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”
When the minister outlined a backup strategy involving establishing a parallel currency and distributing vouchers to retirees, Tsipras said he realised that it was game over and asked Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Criticism
In the book, the author concludes how his former ally demonstrated himself to be “unfit for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate management.”
Tsipras also wrote that his aggressive style made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, put Greece at risk, while helped hardliners that were pushing for Grexit.
This retelling of history has been met with anger and stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas the former minister has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
