In a freshly published personal account, called Ithaki, the former leader Tsipras spares no criticism as he reflects on the turbulent era of Greece's financial crisis.
An Unconventional Choice
In the ex-PM's version, Tsipras chose that maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis to be the finance minister largely due to the latter's worldwide fame and his very persuasive skills when it came to communicator.
“In reality, he was, truthfully, more like a personality and less of an economist,” stated Tsipras.
Clashing Priorities
The former leader alleges that Varoufakis possessed his own agenda that involved advancing Varoufakis's publications as well as testing out his own economic models using the nation instead of truly advocating its financial survival.
He explained how the negotiations to avoid insolvency became “not just a method to secure improved terms for Greece. They were a test, a monumental chance to prove the validity of his economic theories.”
High-Stakes Talks
During volatile discussions, the country found itself dangerously close to exiting the single currency area.
At stake was not only the country's destiny and those harsh austerity measures required in exchange for financial aid by foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Options
Efforts to secure funds elsewhere, such as an urgent appeal to Russia to purchase Greek government bonds, fell on stony ground.
Assisting the indebted country was equivalent to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly told Tsipras during their meeting.
Public Vote Followed by U-Turn
In July 2015, the punitive conditions were put to a public vote, a move that plunged the EU into deeper existential crisis.
Although the vote was carried resoundingly by those who opposed the cuts, Tsipras was forced but to reject its outcome and agree to a rescue deal from creditors which turned out to be tougher.
Final Straw
Tsipras revealed how he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the face of negotiation, the man who drew publicity, who appeared on the covers of magazines the world over … it seemed he relished his new role.”
When Varoufakis outlined a backup strategy that included establishing a secondary currency as well as distributing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised it was game over questioning him: “Can you be serious?”
Lasting Rebuke
In the memoir, the author asserts that Varoufakis had proved himself “unfit for an agreement demanding complex and delicate management.”
He further claimed how his confrontational style left him increasingly isolated with colleagues, put Greece at risk, and assisted hardliners that were advocating Grexit.
This account of events has been met with anger along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, while Varoufakis has so far maintained a deafening silence regarding these claims.
