In a freshly published autobiography, named Ithaki, the ex- leader Tsipras spares no criticism while he examines that turbulent era during Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Appointment
According to the ex-PM's version, Tsipras chose that unorthodox academic Varoufakis as his treasury head mainly due to the latter's worldwide fame and Varoufakis's “extremely attractive” skills when it came to public orator.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more like a star and less of an economist,” stated Tsipras.
Conflicting Agendas
Tsipras claims that Varoufakis had a personal motives that included advancing Varoufakis's books as well as testing out his own theories on Greece instead of genuinely advocating its economic stability.
Tsipras wrote that those talks to prevent bankruptcy became “not only a way of achieving improved terms for the country. They became an experiment, a monumental chance to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's ideas.”
High-Stakes Talks
Amid volatile discussions, the country found itself dangerously close to exiting the eurozone.
On the line lay not only Greece's destiny but also those punishing cutbacks demanded in exchange for financial aid by foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Options
Efforts to secure financing elsewhere, including an urgent plea to Russia to buy Greek government bonds, went unanswered.
Helping the indebted country was equivalent to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly informed his Greek counterpart in Moscow.
Public Vote and Reversal
That summer, the harsh bailout terms were subjected to a popular referendum, a move that threw the EU into further crisis of identity.
Even though the referendum was won resoundingly by those against austerity, the prime minister had little option to reject its outcome and agree to a rescue deal from creditors which turned out to be even harsher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM revealed 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 covers of publications the world over … he gave the impression he relished the spotlight.”
After the minister proposed a backup strategy that included creating a secondary currency as well as issuing coupons to retirees, the leader knew it was game over and asked Varoufakis: “Can you be serious?”
Lasting Criticism
Within the book, Tsipras asserts how Varoufakis had proved himself “unsuitable for an agreement that required complex and delicate management.”
He also wrote that Varoufakis's confrontational style made him more and more alone among peers, put Greece at risk, and assisted hawks who were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
The retelling of events has been met with fury along with stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas Varoufakis has maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
