In a freshly published autobiography, titled Ithaki, the former premier Tsipras does not hold back while he revisits the turbulent era of Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Appointment
As per Tsipras's version, Tsipras selected the unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis as his treasury head largely due to his worldwide fame and Varoufakis's very persuasive skills as a communicator.
“He was, truthfully, more like a celebrity and less of an economist,” recalled the 51-year-old.
Clashing Priorities
Tsipras alleges that his finance chief had a personal agenda which involved advancing Varoufakis's books as well as experimenting with his game theories on the nation instead of genuinely advocating the country's economic stability.
He explained how those talks to prevent bankruptcy were “not only a method to secure a better deal for Greece. They became a test, an historic chance to prove the validity of his economic theories.”
Critical Negotiations
During volatile discussions, Greece found itself dangerously close to leaving the single currency area.
At stake lay not only Greece's destiny and the severe austerity measures demanded in exchange for bailout funds from foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Attempts to secure funds from other sources, including a desperate plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek government bonds, went unanswered.
Helping Greece was equivalent to throwing money into the garbage, Putin reportedly told Tsipras in Moscow.
Public Vote Followed by U-Turn
In July 2015, the excoriating bailout terms were subjected to a popular referendum, an action that plunged the EU into further existential crisis.
Although the vote was carried resoundingly by those against austerity, Tsipras had little option but to ignore the result then agree to a rescue deal from creditors that proved to be even harsher.
Final Straw
Tsipras revealed how he began to doubt his finance minister quite early on.
“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the man who drew media attention, who appeared on the front pages of publications the world over … it seemed he was enjoying the spotlight.”
When Varoufakis outlined a contingency plan involving establishing a secondary currency as well as distributing coupons to pensioners, the leader knew it was the end and asked him: “Can you be serious?”
Lasting Criticism
In the book, the author concludes how Varoufakis demonstrated himself to be “unfit for a deal demanding complex and sensitive management.”
He also claimed how Varoufakis's aggressive approach made him more and more alone among peers, put Greece at risk, and assisted hardliners who were advocating Grexit.
This retelling of history has been met with fury along with stunned disbelief in some quarters, while the former minister has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
