Within his recently unveiled autobiography, called Ithaki, the former leader Alexis Tsipras pulls no punches while he reflects on the turbulent period during Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Appointment
As per the ex-PM's version, Tsipras appointed that maverick economist Varoufakis to be his finance minister mainly due to the latter's global profile along with Varoufakis's “extremely attractive” abilities as a communicator.
“He was, truthfully, more of a star rather than an economic expert,” stated the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Agendas
The former leader claims how Varoufakis possessed his own motives which involved advancing Varoufakis's books as well as testing out his game theories on the nation rather than genuinely advocating the country's economic stability.
Tsipras wrote how those discussions to prevent bankruptcy were “not only a way of achieving a better deal for the country. They were a test, a monumental chance to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's ideas.”
Critical Negotiations
Amid tense negotiations, Greece found itself dangerously on the brink of leaving the eurozone.
On the line lay both the country's destiny and the harsh austerity measures demanded in exchange for financial aid from international creditors.
Unsuccessful Options
Attempts to secure financing from other sources, including a desperate appeal to the Kremlin to buy Greek bonds, fell on stony ground.
Assisting the indebted country would be equivalent to tossing cash into the garbage, Putin reportedly told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Referendum Followed by Reversal
That summer, those punitive conditions were subjected to a public vote, an action which plunged the EU into further crisis of identity.
Even though the vote was won decisively by those who opposed the cuts, the prime minister was forced but to reject its outcome then agree to a bailout package with foreign lenders that proved to be even harsher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed how he started questioning Varoufakis quite early on.
“He was the public image of the talks, the man who attracted publicity, who appeared on the front pages of magazines globally … he gave the impression he relished the spotlight.”
After the minister proposed a contingency plan that included creating a secondary currency as well as issuing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras knew it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Rebuke
In the book, the author concludes that his former ally had proved himself to be “unsuitable for a deal demanding complex and delicate management.”
Tsipras also claimed that his aggressive style made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, put Greece at risk, and assisted hardliners who were advocating Grexit.
The account of events has been met with fury along with stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas Varoufakis has so far kept a deafening silence on the matter.
