In a freshly published autobiography, titled Ithaki, the ex- premier Tsipras pulls no punches as he reflects on the chaotic era during Greece's financial crisis.
An Unconventional Appointment
As per the ex-PM's version, he appointed that unorthodox economist Varoufakis as the finance minister primarily because of the latter's worldwide fame along with his very persuasive skills as a public orator.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more of a celebrity and less of an economic expert,” stated Tsipras.
Clashing Agendas
The former leader suggests how Varoufakis possessed his own agenda that involved advancing his publications as well as experimenting with his economic models on the nation instead of genuinely advocating the country's financial survival.
Tsipras wrote that those discussions to stave off insolvency became “not only a way of achieving improved terms for the country. They were an experiment, an historic chance to prove the truth of his ideas.”
Critical Talks
Amid tense negotiations, the country came perilously on the brink of exiting the eurozone.
At stake was not only Greece's future but also those harsh cutbacks demanded in return for rescue loans by international creditors.
Unsuccessful Options
Attempts to find funds elsewhere, including a desperate plea to Russia to buy Greek government bonds, were rejected.
Helping Greece was tantamount to throwing money into the garbage, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed Tsipras during their meeting.
Public Vote and U-Turn
In July 2015, the excoriating conditions were subjected to a public vote, an action that plunged Europe into a further crisis of identity.
Even though the referendum was carried decisively by those who opposed the cuts, Tsipras was forced but to ignore the result and agree to a rescue deal from foreign lenders that turned out to be more severe.
Final Straw
Tsipras revealed that he started questioning his finance minister quite early on.
“He was the public image of negotiation, the figure who attracted publicity, who graced the covers of publications the world over … he gave the impression he relished the spotlight.”
When the minister outlined a backup strategy involving establishing a parallel currency as well as distributing vouchers to pensioners, the leader said he realised that it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Rebuke
Within the book, the author asserts how his former ally had proved himself “unfit for a deal demanding intricate and sensitive handling.”
Tsipras further claimed how his confrontational style made him more and more alone with colleagues, put Greece at risk, while helped hardliners that were pushing for Grexit.
This retelling of history has provoked fury along with shock among certain groups, while Varoufakis has maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
