In a recently unveiled autobiography, called Ithaki, the former premier Tsipras spares no criticism as he examines that chaotic era during Greece's financial crisis.
A Controversial Choice
As per the ex-PM's account, he appointed that unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis to be his finance minister largely because of his global profile and his very persuasive abilities as a public orator.
“He was, truthfully, more of a personality and less of an economic expert,” stated the 51-year-old.
Clashing Agendas
The former leader claims how his finance chief possessed his own motives which involved advancing Varoufakis's books and experimenting with his economic models using the nation instead of genuinely advocating the country's financial survival.
He explained how those discussions to stave off bankruptcy were “not only a method to secure a better deal for Greece. They became an experiment, a monumental opportunity to prove the truth of Varoufakis's economic theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid rollercoaster discussions, Greece came dangerously on the brink of exiting the eurozone.
On the line was not only Greece's destiny but also those severe cutbacks required in return for financial aid from foreign lenders.
Failed Alternatives
Efforts to secure financing from other sources, such as a desperate plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek bonds, were rejected.
Helping the indebted country was equivalent to tossing cash into the garbage, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed Tsipras during their meeting.
Referendum and Reversal
That summer, the harsh bailout terms were subjected to a public vote, a move that threw the EU into deeper crisis of identity.
Even though the referendum was won decisively by those against austerity, the prime minister had little option to reject its outcome and agree to a rescue deal from creditors that turned out to be tougher.
Breaking Point
The ex-PM claimed how he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the public image of negotiation, the man who attracted media attention, who graced the front pages of publications globally … it seemed he relished his new role.”
After the minister outlined a contingency plan involving creating a parallel currency as well as distributing coupons to pensioners, the leader said he realised it was game over and asked him: “Are you serious?”
Enduring Rebuke
Within the book, Tsipras concludes that his former ally demonstrated himself to be “unfit for a deal that required intricate and delicate handling.”
He further wrote how Varoufakis's aggressive style left him more and more alone with colleagues, endangered the country, and helped hardliners who were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
This account of events has provoked fury along with shock among certain groups, whereas the former minister has so far kept a deafening silence regarding these claims.
