In a freshly published autobiography, titled Ithaki, the ex- leader Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism as he reflects on the chaotic era of Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Appointment
In the ex-PM's account, he selected the unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis as his finance minister primarily due to the latter's global profile along with Varoufakis's very persuasive skills when it came to speaker.
“He was, actually, more like a celebrity and less of an economist,” wrote Tsipras.
Conflicting Agendas
Tsipras claims how Varoufakis possessed a personal agenda which included promoting Varoufakis's publications as well as experimenting with his game theories using the nation rather than truly fighting for its economic stability.
Tsipras explained that the talks to prevent bankruptcy were “not only a way of achieving a better deal for the country. They were a test, an historic chance to prove the truth of Varoufakis's economic theories.”
Critical Talks
During rollercoaster negotiations, Greece found itself dangerously close to leaving the single currency area.
On the line lay not only the country's future but also those harsh austerity policies required in return for rescue loans by international creditors.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Attempts to find financing from other sources, including an urgent appeal to Russia to purchase Greek bonds, were rejected.
Assisting the indebted country would be tantamount to throwing money into the garbage, Putin reportedly told Tsipras during their meeting.
Public Vote and Reversal
That summer, those punitive conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, a move that threw the EU into a further crisis of identity.
Even though the referendum was carried resoundingly by those who opposed the cuts, Tsipras was forced but to reject its outcome and agree to a bailout package with creditors that turned out to be tougher.
Breaking Point
The ex-PM revealed how he began to doubt his finance minister quite early on.
“He was the public image of the talks, the man who drew media attention, who graced the front pages of publications the world over … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.”
When Varoufakis outlined a contingency plan involving establishing a secondary currency and issuing coupons to retirees, the leader knew that it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Criticism
Within the memoir, Tsipras asserts that Varoufakis demonstrated himself to be “unsuitable for an agreement that required complex and delicate handling.”
He further claimed how his aggressive approach made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, endangered the country, and helped hawks who were pushing for Grexit.
This retelling of history has provoked fury along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas the former minister has maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
