Within his newly released autobiography, named Ithaki, the former prime minister Tsipras does not hold back as he examines that chaotic era during Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Appointment
As per Tsipras's recollections, Tsipras selected that unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis as his finance minister mainly because of his international reputation and Varoufakis's very persuasive skills when it came to public orator.
“In reality, he was, actually, more like a celebrity and less of an economist,” stated the 51-year-old.
Clashing Priorities
The former leader claims how his finance chief possessed a personal motives that included advancing his books and experimenting with his game theories using the nation rather than genuinely advocating its economic stability.
Tsipras noted that the negotiations to stave off insolvency were “not only a way to secure a better deal for the country. They were a test, a monumental opportunity to prove the truth of his theories.”
High-Stakes Negotiations
During volatile discussions, the country came perilously on the brink of leaving the eurozone.
At stake lay both Greece's destiny and the harsh cutbacks required in exchange for rescue loans by foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Efforts to secure funds from other sources, such as an urgent plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek bonds, were rejected.
Helping Greece was tantamount to tossing cash into the garbage, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed Tsipras during their meeting.
Referendum and U-Turn
In July 2015, the harsh conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, a move which threw Europe into deeper existential crisis.
Although the referendum was won decisively by voters against austerity, the prime minister was forced but to reject its outcome then agree to a bailout package with foreign lenders which proved to be even harsher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM revealed how he began to doubt his finance minister relatively soon.
“He was the public image of the talks, the figure who attracted media attention, who appeared on the front pages of publications the world over … he gave the impression he was enjoying his new role.”
After the minister outlined a contingency plan involving creating a parallel currency as well as issuing vouchers to retirees, Tsipras knew it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”
Lasting Rebuke
Within the book, the author asserts that his former ally demonstrated himself “unsuitable for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate handling.”
Tsipras further claimed how Varoufakis's confrontational approach made him more and more alone among peers, put Greece at risk, while helped hardliners who were pushing for a Greek exit from the euro.
The retelling of events has been met with anger along with shock among certain groups, while the former minister has maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
