Within his freshly published autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism while he revisits the chaotic period during Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Choice
In Tsipras's version, Tsipras chose that maverick academic Varoufakis as his treasury head largely because of his global profile along with Varoufakis's very persuasive abilities as a public orator.
“He was, truthfully, more like a star and less of an economist,” stated Tsipras.
Conflicting Priorities
The former leader alleges that Varoufakis had his own agenda which involved promoting his books as well as testing out his game theories on Greece instead of genuinely fighting for its financial survival.
He wrote how the discussions to stave off bankruptcy were “not just a way of achieving a better deal for Greece. They became a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the validity of his economic theories.”
High-Stakes Talks
During volatile discussions, the country came dangerously on the brink of leaving the eurozone.
On the line lay not only Greece's future but also those harsh cutbacks demanded in exchange for rescue loans by international creditors.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Attempts to find financing elsewhere, such as a desperate plea to Russia to buy Greek bonds, were rejected.
Assisting the indebted country would be tantamount to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly informed his Greek counterpart in Moscow.
Referendum and Reversal
That summer, those harsh bailout terms were subjected to a public vote, a move that plunged the EU into further crisis of identity.
Even though the vote was won decisively by voters against the cuts, Tsipras had little option to ignore the result then negotiate a rescue deal with creditors which turned out to be even harsher.
Breaking Point
The ex-PM revealed how he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the face of negotiation, the figure who drew media attention, who graced the front pages of publications globally … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.”
After the minister proposed a contingency plan involving creating a secondary currency and distributing vouchers to retirees, the leader said he realised that it was the end and asked him: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Rebuke
Within the memoir, the author asserts how Varoufakis had proved himself to be “unfit for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate handling.”
He further wrote that his confrontational style left him increasingly isolated with colleagues, put Greece at risk, while helped hawks that were pushing for Grexit.
This account of history has provoked fury along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas the former minister has so far kept a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
