In a newly released personal account, named Ithaki, the former leader Tsipras pulls no punches as he examines the chaotic era during Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Choice
In Tsipras's recollections, he chose that unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis to be the treasury head mainly due to his worldwide fame along with his “extremely attractive” skills as a speaker.
“He was, in reality, more of a personality rather than an economic expert,” stated the 51-year-old.
Clashing Agendas
The former leader claims that Varoufakis had his own agenda which included advancing his publications as well as testing out his economic models using Greece instead of genuinely advocating its financial survival.
He noted that those negotiations to prevent bankruptcy were “not just a method to secure improved terms for the country. They became a test, an historic opportunity to demonstrate the truth of his theories.”
Critical Negotiations
During rollercoaster discussions, the country found itself perilously close to exiting the eurozone.
On the line lay both Greece's future but also the severe cutbacks required in exchange for rescue loans by international creditors.
Failed Alternatives
Attempts to find funds elsewhere, such as a desperate plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek bonds, went unanswered.
Assisting Greece would be equivalent to throwing money into the garbage, the Russian leader is reputed to have told Tsipras in Moscow.
Public Vote Followed by Reversal
In July 2015, the excoriating conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, an action which plunged the EU into further crisis of identity.
Although the vote was won resoundingly by those against the cuts, the prime minister was forced but to ignore the result and agree to a rescue deal from foreign lenders which turned out to be tougher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed how he started questioning his finance minister relatively soon.
“He was the face of the talks, the figure who drew media attention, who appeared on the front pages of publications globally … he gave the impression he relished his new role.”
After the minister outlined a contingency plan involving creating a parallel currency and issuing coupons to pensioners, the leader knew it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Rebuke
In the memoir, the author asserts that Varoufakis demonstrated himself “unfit for an agreement demanding intricate and sensitive handling.”
Tsipras further wrote how Varoufakis's confrontational style left him increasingly isolated with colleagues, endangered the country, and helped hardliners who were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
This retelling of history has been met with anger and stunned disbelief among certain groups, while Varoufakis has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
