In a freshly published autobiography, named Ithaki, the former prime minister Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism while he revisits the chaotic era of Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Choice
As per Tsipras's account, Tsipras appointed the maverick economist Varoufakis as the finance minister primarily due to his international reputation along with Varoufakis's very persuasive skills as a speaker.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more like a personality and less of an economic expert,” wrote Tsipras.
Clashing Priorities
Tsipras alleges how his finance chief had a personal motives that included promoting Varoufakis's books and testing out his game theories on Greece instead of truly advocating the country's financial survival.
Tsipras noted that the talks to stave off insolvency became “not just a way to secure improved terms for the country. They became a test, a monumental opportunity to prove the validity of Varoufakis's economic theories.”
High-Stakes Talks
During volatile discussions, the country found itself dangerously close to exiting the eurozone.
On the line lay both Greece's destiny but also those punishing cutbacks required in return for financial aid from foreign lenders.
Failed Options
Attempts to secure funds from other sources, including a desperate plea to Russia to buy Greek government bonds, were rejected.
Assisting the indebted country would be equivalent to tossing cash into the garbage, Putin is reputed to have told Tsipras in Moscow.
Referendum and Reversal
In July 2015, the harsh conditions were subjected to a public vote, an action that threw the EU into deeper crisis of identity.
Even though the vote was carried decisively by those against the cuts, Tsipras was forced but to ignore the result then negotiate a rescue deal from foreign lenders which proved to be even harsher.
Breaking Point
Tsipras claimed that he began to doubt Varoufakis quite early on.
“He was the public image of the talks, the figure who attracted media attention, who graced the covers of publications globally … he gave the impression he was enjoying his new role.”
After the minister proposed a backup strategy that included creating a secondary currency and issuing vouchers to pensioners, the leader said he realised it was game over and asked him: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Rebuke
In the book, Tsipras asserts that his former ally demonstrated himself “unsuitable for an agreement demanding intricate and sensitive management.”
Tsipras also wrote how his aggressive approach made him increasingly isolated among peers, put Greece at risk, while helped hardliners who were pushing for Grexit.
The retelling of history has provoked fury along with shock in some quarters, while the former minister has maintained a deafening silence regarding these claims.
