In a newly released autobiography, titled Ithaki, the ex- leader Tsipras pulls no punches while he examines the turbulent period during Greece's debt drama.
An Unconventional Choice
As per Tsipras's version, he selected that unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis to be his treasury head largely due to the latter's international reputation and Varoufakis's very persuasive skills as a speaker.
“In reality, he was, truthfully, more of a star and less of an economic expert,” stated Tsipras.
Conflicting Agendas
The former leader claims how Varoufakis possessed a personal agenda that involved advancing Varoufakis's publications and experimenting with his own economic models on the nation instead of genuinely advocating the country's economic stability.
He explained that those negotiations to avoid bankruptcy became “not just a way to secure improved terms for the country. They became a test, a monumental chance to demonstrate the validity of his theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid rollercoaster negotiations, the country came dangerously on the brink of exiting the eurozone.
On the line lay both the country's future and those punishing cutbacks demanded in return for financial aid from foreign lenders.
Failed Options
Efforts to secure funds elsewhere, such as a desperate appeal to Russia to purchase Greek government bonds, went unanswered.
Assisting Greece was tantamount to tossing cash into the garbage, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed Tsipras during their meeting.
Referendum Followed by Reversal
That summer, those harsh conditions were put to a popular referendum, an action that plunged Europe into a further crisis of identity.
Although the vote was carried resoundingly by those who opposed the cuts, the prime minister was forced but to reject its outcome and negotiate a bailout package with creditors that proved to be even harsher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed that he started questioning Varoufakis quite early on.
“He was the public image of the talks, the man who drew publicity, who appeared on the front pages of publications the world over … he gave the impression he relished the spotlight.”
When the minister proposed a contingency plan involving establishing a parallel currency and distributing vouchers to retirees, Tsipras said he realised it was game over and asked him: “Are you serious?”
Lasting Criticism
In the memoir, the author asserts that Varoufakis demonstrated himself to be “unsuitable for an agreement that required complex and delicate handling.”
Tsipras further wrote that his confrontational style made him increasingly isolated among peers, endangered the country, while helped hardliners who were advocating Grexit.
This retelling of history has been met with fury along with shock in some quarters, while Varoufakis has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
