In a newly released personal account, named Ithaki, the former leader Tsipras spares no criticism while he revisits that chaotic period during Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Appointment
In the ex-PM's version, Tsipras selected that unorthodox academic Yanis Varoufakis to be the finance minister mainly because of the latter's worldwide fame along with his “extremely attractive” abilities as a public orator.
“He was, actually, more of a celebrity rather than an economic expert,” recalled Tsipras.
Clashing Agendas
Tsipras claims how his finance chief had a personal agenda that involved advancing Varoufakis's books as well as testing out his game theories on the nation rather than genuinely fighting for the country's economic stability.
Tsipras explained that the talks to stave off insolvency were “not only a way to secure improved terms for the country. They were an experiment, an historic opportunity to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's economic theories.”
High-Stakes Talks
Amid rollercoaster discussions, the country came dangerously on the brink of leaving the single currency area.
On the line was not only Greece's destiny and those punishing cutbacks required in exchange for bailout funds from international creditors.
Unsuccessful Options
Efforts to find funds from other sources, including an urgent appeal to Russia to purchase Greek government bonds, fell on stony ground.
Helping Greece was equivalent to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly told Tsipras during their meeting.
Referendum and U-Turn
In July 2015, those harsh bailout terms were subjected to a popular referendum, an action that plunged Europe into further crisis of identity.
Although the referendum was carried decisively by voters against the cuts, the prime minister was forced to ignore the result and agree to a bailout package with creditors that turned out to be tougher.
Final Straw
Tsipras revealed that he started questioning his finance minister relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the man who drew publicity, who graced the covers of magazines globally … it seemed he was enjoying the spotlight.”
After the minister proposed a contingency plan involving establishing a secondary currency and distributing coupons to retirees, Tsipras said he realised that it was game over questioning Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”
Lasting Criticism
Within the book, Tsipras asserts that his former ally had proved himself to be “unsuitable for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate handling.”
Tsipras further wrote that his aggressive approach made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, put Greece at risk, and helped hardliners who were pushing for a Greek exit from the euro.
The account of events has been met with fury along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has kept a deafening silence regarding these claims.
