Within his newly released autobiography, named Ithaki, the ex- premier Tsipras does not hold back as he examines the chaotic era of Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Appointment
In the ex-PM's version, Tsipras appointed that maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis to be his finance minister largely because of his global profile and his very persuasive abilities when it came to public orator.
“He was, actually, more of a celebrity rather than an economist,” stated the 51-year-old.
Clashing Priorities
Tsipras claims how Varoufakis possessed a personal agenda which involved promoting his books as well as experimenting with his economic models on Greece rather than genuinely fighting for its economic stability.
He noted how the discussions to avoid bankruptcy were “not only a way to secure a better deal for Greece. They became a test, a monumental chance to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's ideas.”
High-Stakes Talks
During rollercoaster discussions, the country came perilously close to leaving the eurozone.
At stake lay both the country's future but also those harsh austerity measures required in return for rescue loans from international creditors.
Failed Alternatives
Attempts to find funds elsewhere, including an urgent plea to Russia to buy Greek bonds, fell on stony ground.
Assisting Greece was equivalent to tossing cash into the garbage, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Public Vote and U-Turn
In July 2015, the excoriating conditions were subjected to a public vote, an action that plunged Europe into a deeper crisis of identity.
Even though the vote was carried resoundingly by voters who opposed austerity, Tsipras had little option to ignore the result and agree to a bailout package with foreign lenders that turned out to be even harsher.
Breaking Point
Tsipras claimed that he began to doubt Varoufakis relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the face of negotiation, the man who drew publicity, who appeared on the front pages of publications the world over … he gave the impression he relished his new role.”
After Varoufakis outlined a backup strategy involving creating a parallel currency as well as distributing coupons to retirees, the leader said he realised that it was game over and asked him: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Rebuke
In the memoir, the author concludes how his former ally demonstrated himself to be “unsuitable for a deal demanding intricate and delicate management.”
Tsipras also claimed that Varoufakis's confrontational approach made him more and more alone among peers, endangered the country, and assisted hardliners who were pushing for Grexit.
This account of events has been met with anger and shock among certain groups, while the former minister has so far kept a deafening silence on the matter.
