In a newly released autobiography, titled Ithaki, the former premier Tsipras spares no criticism as he examines the chaotic period of Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Appointment
According to the ex-PM's version, Tsipras chose the unorthodox academic Yanis Varoufakis as the finance minister mainly due to his international reputation and Varoufakis's highly compelling abilities when it came to public orator.
“In reality, he was, actually, more of a personality rather than an economic expert,” recalled Tsipras.
Clashing Agendas
The former leader alleges that Varoufakis possessed his own agenda that included advancing Varoufakis's publications and testing out his theories using the nation rather than truly advocating the country's financial survival.
Tsipras noted how the talks to avoid bankruptcy were “not just a way to secure a better deal for Greece. They were an experiment, a monumental chance to demonstrate the validity of his theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid rollercoaster negotiations, Greece found itself perilously close to leaving the single currency area.
On the line lay not only Greece's future but also those severe cutbacks required in return for rescue loans from foreign lenders.
Failed Options
Attempts to find funds elsewhere, such as a desperate plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek bonds, went unanswered.
Assisting the indebted country would be tantamount to tossing cash into the garbage, Putin reportedly informed Tsipras during their meeting.
Referendum Followed by U-Turn
That summer, those punitive conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, a move that threw the EU into further existential crisis.
Even though the referendum was won decisively by those who opposed austerity, the prime minister was forced but to reject its outcome then agree to a bailout package from foreign lenders that proved to be tougher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM revealed that he began to doubt his finance minister relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the public image of the talks, the man who attracted publicity, who appeared on the front pages of magazines the world over … it seemed he relished his new role.”
When Varoufakis proposed a contingency plan involving establishing a secondary currency and distributing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised it was the end and asked him: “Can you be serious?”
Enduring Criticism
In the memoir, the author asserts that his former ally had proved himself “unsuitable for an agreement that required intricate and sensitive handling.”
Tsipras also wrote how his confrontational approach left him increasingly isolated with colleagues, put Greece at risk, and assisted hawks who were pushing for a Greek exit from the euro.
The retelling of events has been met with fury and shock in some quarters, whereas the former minister has so far kept a deafening silence on the matter.
