In a recently unveiled memoir, called Ithaki, the former leader Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism as he revisits the turbulent era of Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Choice
In Tsipras's recollections, he appointed the unorthodox economist Varoufakis as the treasury head mainly because of the latter's global profile and Varoufakis's very persuasive abilities when it came to public orator.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more of a star rather than an economist,” recalled Tsipras.
Clashing Agendas
Tsipras claims how his finance chief had a personal agenda that involved promoting his books as well as testing out his game theories on the nation instead of genuinely advocating its economic stability.
He wrote how those talks to prevent bankruptcy were “not only a way to secure a better deal for the country. They were a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's ideas.”
Critical Talks
Amid rollercoaster negotiations, the country found itself dangerously close to leaving the eurozone.
On the line lay not only Greece's destiny but also the punishing austerity measures demanded in exchange for bailout funds from foreign lenders.
Failed Alternatives
Attempts to secure funds elsewhere, including an urgent plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek government bonds, went unanswered.
Assisting the indebted country would be equivalent to tossing cash in the trash-can, Putin reportedly informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Public Vote and Reversal
In July 2015, those excoriating conditions were put to a public vote, an action which plunged Europe into a deeper existential crisis.
Although the vote was carried resoundingly by those who opposed the cuts, the prime minister had little option but to reject its outcome then agree to a bailout package with creditors which turned out to be more severe.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed that he began to doubt his finance minister relatively soon.
“He was the public image of the talks, the figure who attracted media attention, who graced the covers of magazines globally … he gave the impression he relished the spotlight.”
When the minister outlined a contingency plan involving establishing a secondary currency as well as issuing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised that it was the end questioning him: “Are you serious?”
Enduring Criticism
In the memoir, Tsipras concludes that Varoufakis had proved himself to be “unsuitable for a deal demanding intricate and delicate handling.”
Tsipras also claimed how Varoufakis's aggressive approach made him more and more alone with colleagues, endangered the country, while assisted hawks that were pushing for a Greek exit from the euro.
This account of events has provoked fury and shock in some quarters, while the former minister has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
