In a recently unveiled memoir, called Ithaki, the ex- premier Tsipras spares no criticism as he examines that chaotic period of Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Appointment
In the ex-PM's version, Tsipras selected that maverick academic Varoufakis as the finance minister largely due to his international reputation along with Varoufakis's highly compelling abilities as a public orator.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more like a celebrity rather than an economist,” stated the 51-year-old.
Clashing Agendas
The former leader claims how his finance chief had a personal motives that involved promoting his publications as well as testing out his theories on Greece instead of truly fighting for the country's economic stability.
Tsipras noted that the negotiations to stave off bankruptcy became “not just a method to secure a better deal for Greece. They became a test, an historic chance to demonstrate the validity of his ideas.”
Critical Talks
Amid rollercoaster discussions, the country came dangerously on the brink of exiting the eurozone.
On the line was not only Greece's future and those severe austerity measures required in return for financial aid from international creditors.
Failed Options
Efforts to secure financing from other sources, such as an urgent plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek government bonds, went unanswered.
Helping Greece was equivalent to throwing money into the garbage, Putin is reputed to have informed Tsipras in Moscow.
Public Vote Followed by Reversal
That summer, those harsh bailout terms were put to a public vote, an action that plunged Europe into a further existential crisis.
Although the vote was carried resoundingly by those against austerity, Tsipras had little option but to reject its outcome and negotiate a bailout package from creditors which proved to be tougher.
Final Straw
Tsipras revealed how he began to doubt his finance minister quite early on.
“He was the public image of negotiation, the man who attracted publicity, who appeared on the front pages of publications globally … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”
After Varoufakis proposed a contingency plan that included creating a parallel currency as well as distributing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”
Lasting Rebuke
Within the book, the author asserts that Varoufakis demonstrated himself to be “unsuitable for an agreement that required intricate and sensitive handling.”
He also wrote how his confrontational style made him increasingly isolated among peers, endangered the country, while assisted hawks who were pushing for Grexit.
The account of events has provoked fury and stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has kept a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
