In a newly released autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- premier Tsipras does not hold back while he revisits the turbulent period during Greece's financial crisis.
An Unconventional Choice
In the ex-PM's version, he appointed the maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis to be his finance minister mainly because of the latter's international reputation and Varoufakis's highly compelling skills when it came to communicator.
“In reality, he was, truthfully, more of a star rather than an economic expert,” wrote the 51-year-old.
Clashing Agendas
Tsipras alleges how Varoufakis possessed a personal motives that included advancing Varoufakis's books and experimenting with his own economic models using the nation rather than genuinely fighting for the country's economic stability.
Tsipras noted that those talks to prevent bankruptcy were “not just a way to secure improved terms for Greece. They became a test, a monumental chance to prove the validity of Varoufakis's economic theories.”
High-Stakes Talks
During rollercoaster negotiations, Greece came dangerously close to leaving the eurozone.
At stake lay not only Greece's destiny but also those punishing austerity policies demanded in exchange for rescue loans from international creditors.
Failed Alternatives
Attempts to secure funds elsewhere, such as an urgent appeal to Russia to buy Greek bonds, fell on stony ground.
Assisting the indebted country was tantamount to throwing money into the garbage, the Russian leader reportedly told his Greek counterpart in Moscow.
Public Vote Followed by U-Turn
In July 2015, the harsh conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, an action which threw Europe into further crisis of identity.
Even though the referendum was won resoundingly by those who opposed the cuts, the prime minister was forced to ignore the result then agree to a rescue deal from foreign lenders that proved to be more severe.
Breaking Point
Tsipras revealed how he began to doubt his finance minister relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the public image of negotiation, the man who drew publicity, who appeared on the covers of publications the world over … it seemed he relished his new role.”
When Varoufakis proposed a backup strategy involving creating a secondary currency as well as issuing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”
Enduring Criticism
In the memoir, Tsipras asserts that Varoufakis had proved himself “unfit for a deal demanding intricate and sensitive management.”
He further claimed that Varoufakis's confrontational style made him increasingly isolated among peers, put Greece at risk, while helped hardliners who were pushing for Grexit.
This retelling of events has provoked anger along with shock among certain groups, while Varoufakis has so far kept a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
