In a freshly published personal account, named Ithaki, the ex- leader Tsipras does not hold back while he examines that chaotic period of Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Appointment
As per Tsipras's account, he chose the unorthodox economist Varoufakis to be his finance minister primarily due to his international reputation and his highly compelling abilities as a communicator.
“He was, actually, more like a star and less of an economist,” stated Tsipras.
Clashing Agendas
Tsipras suggests how his finance chief possessed a personal motives that involved advancing his books as well as testing out his economic models using the nation instead of truly advocating the country's economic stability.
He explained that those talks to avoid bankruptcy were “not just a way to secure a better deal for Greece. They became a test, an historic opportunity to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid tense discussions, the country found itself perilously on the brink of leaving the single currency area.
On the line lay both the country's destiny but also those severe austerity measures required in return for financial aid by foreign lenders.
Failed Alternatives
Attempts to secure funds from other sources, such as an urgent plea to Russia to buy Greek bonds, went unanswered.
Helping the indebted country would be equivalent to throwing money in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly informed Tsipras in Moscow.
Referendum Followed by U-Turn
In July 2015, those harsh bailout terms were put to a public vote, an action which threw Europe into a deeper crisis of identity.
Although the vote was carried resoundingly by those against the cuts, the prime minister was forced but to ignore the result and agree to a bailout package with creditors which turned out to be even harsher.
Final Straw
Tsipras revealed how he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.
“He was the public image of negotiation, the figure who drew publicity, who graced the covers of publications globally … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.”
After Varoufakis proposed a contingency plan that included creating a secondary currency and distributing vouchers to retirees, the leader said he realised it was the end and asked him: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Criticism
In the memoir, Tsipras concludes that his former ally demonstrated himself to be “unsuitable for an agreement that required intricate and delicate handling.”
Tsipras further wrote how his confrontational approach made him more and more alone with colleagues, endangered the country, and assisted hawks who were pushing for Grexit.
This account of events has been met with anger along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
