In a freshly published memoir, titled Ithaki, the former leader Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism while he examines the chaotic era of Greece's debt drama.
An Unconventional Choice
According to Tsipras's recollections, he chose that unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis as his finance minister mainly due to his worldwide fame along with Varoufakis's highly compelling abilities when it came to speaker.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more like a celebrity rather than an economist,” wrote Tsipras.
Conflicting Priorities
Tsipras claims how Varoufakis had his own agenda that included promoting his books and experimenting with his economic models using the nation rather than truly fighting for its economic stability.
He wrote that the discussions to prevent bankruptcy became “not just a method of achieving improved terms for the country. They became a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the validity of his ideas.”
Critical Talks
During tense discussions, the country found itself perilously close to exiting the single currency area.
On the line was both the country's destiny but also those punishing austerity policies required in return for bailout funds from foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Options
Attempts to find funds elsewhere, such as an urgent plea to Russia to buy Greek government bonds, went unanswered.
Assisting Greece would be tantamount to tossing cash into the garbage, the Russian leader reportedly informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Public Vote Followed by Reversal
That summer, the harsh bailout terms were subjected to a public vote, a move that threw Europe into a further crisis of identity.
Even though the referendum was carried resoundingly by voters against the cuts, the prime minister had little option to reject its outcome then negotiate a rescue deal from creditors that turned out to be even harsher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM revealed how he began to doubt Varoufakis quite early on.
“He was the public image of negotiation, the figure who drew publicity, who graced the front pages of magazines the world over … he gave the impression he was enjoying his new role.”
When the minister proposed a contingency plan that included creating a parallel currency as well as issuing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised that it was game over and asked him: “Are you serious?”
Enduring Criticism
Within the book, the author concludes how his former ally had proved himself “unfit for a deal demanding complex and delicate management.”
Tsipras also claimed how Varoufakis's aggressive approach left him more and more alone with colleagues, put Greece at risk, and helped hawks that were pushing for Grexit.
The retelling of history has been met with fury along with shock among certain groups, whereas the former minister has so far kept a deafening silence regarding these claims.
