In a recently unveiled memoir, named Ithaki, the ex- leader Alexis Tsipras does not hold back while he reflects on the chaotic era during Greece's economic turmoil.
An Unconventional Appointment
As per Tsipras's version, Tsipras chose that maverick academic Varoufakis to be the finance minister mainly due to his international reputation and Varoufakis's “extremely attractive” abilities as a speaker.
“In reality, he was, actually, more of a star rather than an economist,” recalled the 51-year-old.
Clashing Priorities
The former leader claims that Varoufakis possessed his own agenda which involved advancing his books as well as testing out his game theories on Greece rather than genuinely fighting for its economic stability.
He noted how those negotiations to avoid bankruptcy were “not only a method to secure improved terms for the country. They were an experiment, a monumental chance to prove the truth of his ideas.”
Critical Negotiations
Amid tense negotiations, Greece found itself dangerously close to exiting the single currency area.
At stake was not only Greece's future but also those severe austerity policies demanded in return for financial aid by foreign lenders.
Failed Alternatives
Efforts to find financing from other sources, including an urgent plea to Russia to purchase Greek bonds, fell on stony ground.
Assisting Greece would be tantamount to tossing cash into the garbage, Putin is reputed to have told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Public Vote Followed by Reversal
In July 2015, the excoriating bailout terms were put to a popular referendum, an action which plunged the EU into a deeper existential crisis.
Even though the vote was carried decisively by voters against the cuts, Tsipras was forced to reject its outcome and negotiate a bailout package with foreign lenders which turned out to be even harsher.
Breaking Point
The ex-PM claimed that he began to doubt his finance minister relatively soon.
“He was the public image of negotiation, the man who attracted publicity, who graced the covers of magazines globally … he gave the impression he relished his new role.”
When Varoufakis outlined a contingency plan involving creating a parallel currency and issuing coupons to pensioners, Tsipras knew it was the end and asked him: “Are you serious?”
Enduring Criticism
In the book, Tsipras asserts that his former ally had proved himself to be “unfit for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate management.”
He further claimed how his confrontational approach made him more and more alone with colleagues, endangered the country, and helped hawks who were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
This account of events has provoked fury and stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
