Within his newly released autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism while he examines that turbulent era of Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Choice
As per Tsipras's version, he chose that maverick economist Varoufakis to be the finance minister largely due to the latter's worldwide fame and his “extremely attractive” skills when it came to communicator.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more of a star rather than an economist,” stated Tsipras.
Conflicting Agendas
The former leader suggests how his finance chief possessed a personal agenda which involved advancing his books and testing out his game theories using the nation rather than truly advocating its financial survival.
Tsipras noted that the discussions to avoid bankruptcy became “not only a way of achieving improved terms for the country. They were a test, a monumental opportunity to prove the truth of Varoufakis's ideas.”
Critical Talks
During rollercoaster discussions, Greece came perilously close to leaving the single currency area.
On the line was both the country's future but also those punishing austerity measures required in return for financial aid by international creditors.
Failed Options
Efforts to find funds elsewhere, such as a desperate appeal to the Kremlin to purchase Greek bonds, fell on stony ground.
Helping the indebted country would be equivalent to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Referendum and Reversal
In July 2015, the excoriating conditions were subjected to a public vote, an action which threw Europe into a further existential crisis.
Even though the referendum was won resoundingly by voters who opposed the cuts, Tsipras was forced to ignore the result then agree to a bailout package with creditors which proved to be more severe.
Final Straw
Tsipras claimed that he started questioning his finance minister quite early on.
“Varoufakis was the face of negotiation, the figure who attracted media attention, who appeared on the covers of publications globally … he gave the impression he was enjoying his new role.”
When Varoufakis proposed a backup strategy involving establishing a secondary currency as well as distributing coupons to retirees, Tsipras said he realised that it was game over and asked him: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Criticism
In the memoir, the author asserts how his former ally demonstrated himself “unfit for a deal demanding intricate and sensitive management.”
He further wrote that Varoufakis's aggressive style made him more and more alone with colleagues, endangered the country, and helped hardliners that were advocating Grexit.
The retelling of history has provoked anger and stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas Varoufakis has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
