In a recently unveiled autobiography, titled Ithaki, the ex- premier Alexis Tsipras does not hold back as he reflects on that turbulent era of Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Appointment
According to Tsipras's version, he appointed that unorthodox academic Varoufakis as the finance minister mainly due to his international reputation and Varoufakis's very persuasive abilities when it came to communicator.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more of a personality rather than an economic expert,” stated Tsipras.
Conflicting Priorities
Tsipras suggests that Varoufakis had his own agenda which involved promoting Varoufakis's books as well as testing out his theories on Greece rather than truly fighting for its economic stability.
He noted how those talks to stave off insolvency became “not only a method of achieving a better deal for Greece. They were a test, a monumental chance to prove the truth of his theories.”
Critical Talks
During tense discussions, Greece came perilously on the brink of leaving the single currency area.
On the line was both Greece's future but also the punishing cutbacks required in return for financial aid by international creditors.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Efforts to secure funds from other sources, such as an urgent plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek government bonds, fell on stony ground.
Assisting the indebted country was tantamount to throwing money into the garbage, the Russian leader reportedly informed his Greek counterpart in Moscow.
Public Vote Followed by Reversal
In July 2015, those excoriating conditions were put to a public vote, an action that threw the EU into a deeper existential crisis.
Even though the vote was carried resoundingly by those who opposed austerity, Tsipras was forced but to reject its outcome then negotiate a bailout package with foreign lenders which proved to be even harsher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed that he began to doubt his finance minister quite early on.
“He was the public image of the talks, the figure who attracted publicity, who graced the front pages of magazines globally … he gave the impression he relished the spotlight.”
After the minister outlined a backup strategy that included creating a parallel currency and distributing coupons to pensioners, the leader said he realised that it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”
Lasting Criticism
In the memoir, the author asserts that his former ally demonstrated himself to be “unfit for an agreement that required complex and sensitive management.”
Tsipras also wrote how Varoufakis's confrontational style left him increasingly isolated among peers, endangered the country, and assisted hawks who were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
This account of history has been met with anger along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, while the former minister has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
