In a newly released memoir, titled Ithaki, the ex- leader Tsipras does not hold back while he examines that turbulent period of Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Choice
As per the ex-PM's recollections, Tsipras appointed that unorthodox economist Varoufakis to be the treasury head largely due to the latter's worldwide fame along with Varoufakis's “extremely attractive” abilities as a public orator.
“He was, truthfully, more like a personality and less of an economic expert,” wrote the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Priorities
Tsipras claims how Varoufakis possessed a personal motives that involved promoting Varoufakis's books as well as experimenting with his own game theories using the nation instead of genuinely fighting for the country's economic stability.
He explained that those discussions to avoid bankruptcy were “not only a way of achieving improved terms for the country. They became a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the truth of his economic theories.”
Critical Talks
During rollercoaster discussions, the country came dangerously on the brink of exiting the single currency area.
At stake lay both Greece's future and those punishing austerity measures required in return for rescue loans by foreign lenders.
Failed Options
Attempts to secure funds elsewhere, including a desperate plea to Russia to buy Greek government bonds, fell on stony ground.
Assisting Greece would be equivalent to throwing money into the garbage, the Russian leader reportedly informed Tsipras during their meeting.
Referendum Followed by Reversal
That summer, the excoriating bailout terms were put to a public vote, an action which threw Europe into further crisis of identity.
Even though the vote was carried decisively by voters against austerity, the prime minister was forced but to reject its outcome and negotiate a bailout package from creditors that proved to be even harsher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed that he began to doubt Varoufakis relatively soon.
“He was the public image of negotiation, the figure who drew publicity, who appeared on the covers of magazines globally … it seemed he relished his new role.”
After Varoufakis outlined a contingency plan involving establishing a parallel currency and issuing coupons to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”
Lasting Criticism
Within the book, the author asserts that his former ally had proved himself to be “unfit for a deal that required intricate and sensitive handling.”
Tsipras further claimed that his confrontational style made him increasingly isolated among peers, put Greece at risk, and helped hawks who were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
This retelling of history has been met with anger and stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas the former minister has maintained a deafening silence on the matter.
