In a recently unveiled autobiography, titled Ithaki, the ex- leader Alexis Tsipras pulls no punches as he reflects on the chaotic era of Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Appointment
According to Tsipras's version, Tsipras selected that maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis to be the finance minister mainly due to his international reputation along with his very persuasive skills when it came to communicator.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more of a personality rather than an economic expert,” stated the 51-year-old.
Clashing Priorities
Tsipras claims how Varoufakis possessed a personal agenda which included advancing Varoufakis's publications and testing out his own theories on Greece rather than genuinely advocating its financial survival.
He explained how the negotiations to stave off insolvency were “not just a method to secure improved terms for the country. They became a test, an historic chance to demonstrate the validity of his ideas.”
Critical Talks
During volatile discussions, the country found itself dangerously close to exiting the eurozone.
On the line lay both Greece's destiny and those severe austerity measures required in exchange for bailout funds from international creditors.
Unsuccessful Options
Efforts to find financing elsewhere, including a desperate plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek bonds, were rejected.
Helping the indebted country was tantamount to tossing cash in the trash-can, Putin reportedly informed Tsipras in Moscow.
Referendum Followed by U-Turn
That summer, the punitive conditions were put to a popular referendum, a move which plunged Europe into a deeper existential crisis.
Although the vote was won decisively by those against austerity, the prime minister was forced to reject its outcome then agree to a rescue deal from creditors that turned out to be tougher.
Breaking Point
Tsipras revealed that he started questioning his finance minister relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the figure who attracted publicity, who appeared on the covers of publications the world over … it seemed he was enjoying the spotlight.”
After Varoufakis outlined a backup strategy that included creating a secondary currency and issuing vouchers to pensioners, the leader knew it was the end questioning him: “Are you serious?”
Lasting Criticism
In the book, Tsipras concludes that his former ally demonstrated himself to be “unfit for an agreement that required intricate and sensitive management.”
Tsipras also wrote how his confrontational style left him more and more alone among peers, endangered the country, and assisted hawks that were advocating Grexit.
This account of events has been met with fury along with stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas Varoufakis has maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
