Within his recently unveiled autobiography, titled Ithaki, the ex- premier Tsipras does not hold back as he examines the chaotic era of Greece's financial crisis.
A Controversial Choice
In the ex-PM's recollections, he chose that maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis to be the finance minister mainly due to the latter's worldwide fame along with Varoufakis's “extremely attractive” abilities when it came to speaker.
“In reality, he was, truthfully, more of a personality rather than an economist,” stated Tsipras.
Clashing Agendas
Tsipras suggests how Varoufakis had a personal motives that included promoting his books and experimenting with his own theories using the nation rather than truly fighting for its financial survival.
He noted how the discussions to avoid bankruptcy became “not only a way to secure improved terms for the country. They became a test, an historic opportunity to prove the truth of his theories.”
High-Stakes Talks
During tense discussions, the country came dangerously close to leaving the single currency area.
At stake lay not only the country's future but also those punishing austerity policies required in return for rescue loans by foreign lenders.
Failed Options
Efforts to secure funds elsewhere, such as a desperate plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek bonds, went unanswered.
Helping Greece would be tantamount to throwing money into the garbage, Putin reportedly told Tsipras in Moscow.
Referendum Followed by U-Turn
In July 2015, the punitive bailout terms were subjected to a popular referendum, a move which plunged Europe into further crisis of identity.
Although the vote was won resoundingly by those who opposed austerity, Tsipras was forced to reject its outcome and agree to a rescue deal from creditors which proved to be tougher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM revealed that he began to doubt Varoufakis relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the man who attracted publicity, who graced the covers of magazines globally … it seemed he relished his new role.”
When Varoufakis proposed a contingency plan that included creating a parallel currency and issuing vouchers to retirees, the leader knew it was game over and asked Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Rebuke
In the book, the author asserts how his former ally demonstrated himself to be “unsuitable for an agreement that required intricate and delicate management.”
Tsipras also claimed how his confrontational approach left him more and more alone among peers, endangered the country, and helped hawks who were advocating Grexit.
This retelling of events has been met with fury and stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas Varoufakis has maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
