In a freshly published memoir, named Ithaki, the ex- premier Tsipras spares no criticism as he reflects on the turbulent era during Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Choice
In Tsipras's account, he chose that unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis as his finance minister mainly due to his international reputation and his highly compelling skills as a speaker.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more like a personality and less of an economist,” wrote the 51-year-old.
Clashing Priorities
The former leader alleges how Varoufakis possessed his own agenda that involved promoting his publications as well as experimenting with his own theories on the nation rather than genuinely advocating its economic stability.
Tsipras noted how those talks to prevent insolvency became “not only a method to secure improved terms for Greece. They were an experiment, a monumental chance to demonstrate the validity of Varoufakis's ideas.”
Critical Negotiations
Amid tense discussions, Greece came perilously close to exiting the single currency area.
At stake lay not only Greece's future and the severe cutbacks demanded in return for financial aid from international creditors.
Failed Options
Efforts to find funds elsewhere, such as an urgent appeal to Russia to buy Greek bonds, fell on stony ground.
Helping Greece was tantamount to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly told Tsipras during their meeting.
Public Vote and Reversal
In July 2015, those harsh bailout terms were put to a popular referendum, an action which plunged Europe into further crisis of identity.
Even though the referendum was carried decisively by voters who opposed the cuts, Tsipras was forced but to ignore the result and negotiate a rescue deal from foreign lenders that proved to be even harsher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed how he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the man who attracted publicity, who graced the covers of magazines globally … it seemed he was enjoying the spotlight.”
When Varoufakis proposed a backup strategy that included establishing a secondary currency and issuing vouchers to pensioners, the leader knew that it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Criticism
In the memoir, the author concludes that Varoufakis had proved himself to be “unsuitable for an agreement that required complex and delicate handling.”
Tsipras also claimed that Varoufakis's confrontational approach left him more and more alone among peers, endangered the country, while assisted hawks who were advocating Grexit.
The account of history has provoked anger and stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has kept a deafening silence on the matter.
