In a freshly published personal account, named Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Tsipras does not hold back while he examines that turbulent period during Greece's financial crisis.
An Unconventional Appointment
As per Tsipras's version, Tsipras appointed that maverick economist Varoufakis to be the finance minister largely because of his international reputation and his very persuasive abilities when it came to public orator.
“In reality, he was, actually, more like a personality rather than an economic expert,” wrote Tsipras.
Clashing Priorities
The former leader alleges that Varoufakis had his own agenda which included advancing his publications and experimenting with his economic models using Greece rather than truly fighting for its financial survival.
Tsipras noted how the talks to stave off insolvency were “not just a way of achieving a better deal for Greece. They became a test, an historic chance to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid tense negotiations, the country found itself perilously on the brink of leaving the single currency area.
On the line lay both Greece's destiny but also those harsh austerity policies demanded in return for financial aid by international creditors.
Unsuccessful Options
Efforts to find funds from other sources, such as a desperate plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek bonds, were rejected.
Helping Greece was tantamount to tossing cash into the garbage, Putin is reputed to have informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Public Vote Followed by U-Turn
In July 2015, those harsh conditions were put to a public vote, an action which threw the EU into deeper crisis of identity.
Even though the vote was won decisively by those against austerity, the prime minister was forced but to reject its outcome then agree to a bailout package from foreign lenders which proved to be more severe.
Final Straw
Tsipras revealed that he began to doubt Varoufakis quite early on.
“Varoufakis was the face of negotiation, the figure who drew publicity, who appeared on the covers of magazines globally … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”
After the minister outlined a backup strategy that included establishing a parallel currency and issuing coupons to pensioners, the leader said he realised it was the end questioning him: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Rebuke
In the book, the author concludes how Varoufakis demonstrated himself “unfit for a deal demanding intricate and delicate handling.”
Tsipras further claimed how Varoufakis's aggressive approach made him more and more alone among peers, put Greece at risk, and assisted hawks that were pushing for Grexit.
The retelling of events has been met with anger along with shock in some quarters, while the former minister has maintained a deafening silence on the matter.
