In a recently unveiled autobiography, called Ithaki, the former leader Tsipras spares no criticism while he reflects on that turbulent era of Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Choice
As per Tsipras's recollections, he chose that maverick academic Yanis Varoufakis as the treasury head largely due to the latter's global profile along with Varoufakis's highly compelling skills as a speaker.
“In reality, he was, actually, more like a personality and less of an economist,” stated the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Priorities
The former leader alleges how Varoufakis had his own motives that included promoting his books as well as experimenting with his own game theories on the nation rather than genuinely fighting for its financial survival.
Tsipras explained how the discussions to stave off insolvency became “not only a way to secure improved terms for Greece. They were an experiment, an historic chance to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's ideas.”
Critical Talks
During volatile negotiations, Greece found itself perilously on the brink of leaving the single currency area.
On the line was both the country's destiny and the punishing cutbacks required in return for rescue loans from foreign lenders.
Failed Options
Efforts to find funds elsewhere, such as a desperate plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek bonds, were rejected.
Helping Greece was tantamount to throwing money in the trash-can, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Referendum and U-Turn
That summer, the harsh conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, a move which plunged the EU into deeper existential crisis.
Even though the referendum was won decisively by voters against the cuts, Tsipras was forced but to reject its outcome and negotiate a bailout package with creditors which proved to be even harsher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM revealed how he began to doubt Varoufakis quite early on.
“He was the public image of the talks, the figure who drew media attention, who appeared on the front pages of magazines the world over … it seemed he relished the spotlight.”
After the minister proposed a backup strategy involving creating a parallel currency and issuing vouchers to retirees, the leader knew it was the end questioning him: “Can you be serious?”
Lasting Criticism
In the memoir, the author concludes that Varoufakis demonstrated himself to be “unsuitable for an agreement that required intricate and sensitive handling.”
He also wrote that Varoufakis's aggressive approach made him more and more alone with colleagues, endangered the country, while assisted hardliners who were advocating Grexit.
This account of history has provoked anger and shock among certain groups, while the former minister has so far maintained a deafening silence on the matter.
