In a recently unveiled personal account, named Ithaki, the ex- leader Tsipras spares no criticism as he examines that turbulent period during Greece's financial crisis.
An Unconventional Appointment
As per the ex-PM's version, Tsipras selected that maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis to be the treasury head largely because of the latter's worldwide fame along with his “extremely attractive” skills when it came to communicator.
“In reality, he was, actually, more like a star and less of an economist,” wrote Tsipras.
Conflicting Agendas
The former leader alleges that Varoufakis had his own agenda which included promoting his publications and testing out his game theories on the nation instead of genuinely fighting for its economic stability.
He explained how the negotiations to prevent insolvency became “not just a method to secure improved terms for Greece. They were a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the truth of his economic theories.”
Critical Negotiations
Amid rollercoaster negotiations, the country found itself dangerously close to exiting the eurozone.
At stake lay not only the country's destiny but also those punishing cutbacks demanded in return for financial aid from international creditors.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Attempts to find funds elsewhere, including an urgent appeal to Russia to buy Greek bonds, were rejected.
Assisting Greece was equivalent to tossing cash in the trash-can, Putin reportedly informed Tsipras in Moscow.
Referendum and Reversal
In July 2015, the harsh conditions were put to a public vote, an action that plunged Europe into further existential crisis.
Even though the referendum was carried decisively by those who opposed austerity, the prime minister was forced but to ignore the result and negotiate a rescue deal with creditors which proved to be tougher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed how he began to doubt Varoufakis relatively soon.
“He was the face of the talks, the man who drew publicity, who graced the covers of publications the world over … he gave the impression he was enjoying his new role.”
When the minister outlined a backup strategy involving establishing a secondary currency as well as issuing coupons to retirees, the leader said he realised it was the end questioning him: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Criticism
Within the memoir, the author asserts that Varoufakis had proved himself to be “unsuitable for a deal that required intricate and delicate management.”
He also claimed that Varoufakis's confrontational approach left him more and more alone among peers, put Greece at risk, and assisted hardliners who were advocating Grexit.
This retelling of history has been met with anger and stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas Varoufakis has so far kept a deafening silence on the matter.
