Within his freshly published autobiography, called Ithaki, the former leader Tsipras does not hold back while he examines the chaotic era of Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Choice
In Tsipras's version, Tsipras chose that unorthodox academic Yanis Varoufakis as his treasury head largely because of the latter's worldwide fame along with Varoufakis's highly compelling abilities when it came to speaker.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more of a personality and less of an economic expert,” wrote the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Agendas
The former leader suggests how his finance chief had his own motives which involved advancing his publications as well as experimenting with his own game theories using the nation rather than genuinely fighting for the country's financial survival.
He explained how the discussions to prevent bankruptcy became “not just a way to secure a better deal for the country. They were a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the validity of Varoufakis's theories.”
Critical Negotiations
Amid rollercoaster discussions, Greece found itself perilously close to exiting the single currency area.
At stake lay not only the country's destiny but also those severe austerity policies required in exchange for financial aid from international creditors.
Failed Alternatives
Attempts to secure funds elsewhere, such as a desperate plea to Russia to buy Greek government bonds, went unanswered.
Helping Greece would be tantamount to throwing money in the trash-can, Putin is reputed to have told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Referendum and U-Turn
In July 2015, those harsh bailout terms were subjected to a public vote, an action which plunged the EU into deeper existential crisis.
Even though the vote was carried resoundingly by those against the cuts, the prime minister was forced but to ignore the result and negotiate a rescue deal with creditors which proved to be tougher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed that he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.
“He was the public image of negotiation, the man who attracted media attention, who appeared on the front pages of magazines the world over … it seemed he relished the spotlight.”
When the minister proposed a contingency plan involving creating a parallel currency and distributing vouchers to retirees, the leader knew it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Criticism
In the memoir, Tsipras concludes how Varoufakis demonstrated himself to be “unfit for an agreement that required complex and sensitive handling.”
He also wrote that his confrontational style made him increasingly isolated among peers, put Greece at risk, and assisted hardliners who were pushing for a Greek exit from the euro.
The account of history has provoked fury and shock in some quarters, while Varoufakis has kept a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
