In a recently unveiled memoir, called Ithaki, the ex- leader Tsipras spares no criticism while he revisits the chaotic period during Greece's financial crisis.
An Unconventional Appointment
In the ex-PM's recollections, he selected the unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis as the finance minister mainly because of the latter's global profile and his very persuasive abilities when it came to public orator.
“He was, actually, more like a star and less of an economic expert,” recalled Tsipras.
Clashing Agendas
The former leader alleges how his finance chief possessed his own agenda which involved promoting Varoufakis's publications as well as testing out his game theories on the nation instead of truly fighting for its economic stability.
He noted that those talks to prevent insolvency were “not just a way to secure a better deal for Greece. They became a test, a monumental chance to prove the truth of his theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid rollercoaster negotiations, Greece found itself perilously on the brink of exiting the eurozone.
On the line lay not only Greece's destiny but also the harsh austerity policies required in return for rescue loans from international creditors.
Unsuccessful Options
Efforts to secure financing from other sources, such as a desperate appeal to Russia to purchase Greek bonds, were rejected.
Assisting the indebted country was equivalent to throwing money in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly told Tsipras in Moscow.
Public Vote Followed by Reversal
That summer, the punitive conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, an action which plunged the EU into further crisis of identity.
Even though the vote was carried resoundingly by voters against the cuts, Tsipras had little option to ignore the result then agree to a bailout package from creditors which turned out to be more severe.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed that he began to doubt his finance minister relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the face of negotiation, the man who drew publicity, who graced the covers of magazines globally … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”
After Varoufakis outlined a backup strategy that included creating a parallel currency as well as issuing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised that it was game over questioning him: “Are you serious?”
Enduring Criticism
Within the memoir, the author concludes that Varoufakis had proved himself to be “unsuitable for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate management.”
Tsipras further claimed how Varoufakis's confrontational approach left him increasingly isolated among peers, endangered the country, while assisted hardliners that were pushing for a Greek exit from the euro.
This retelling of history has provoked fury along with shock among certain groups, whereas the former minister has so far kept a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
