In a recently unveiled memoir, named Ithaki, the ex- leader Tsipras spares no criticism as he examines that chaotic period of Greece's financial crisis.
An Unconventional Choice
According to Tsipras's version, Tsipras chose that maverick economist Varoufakis to be the finance minister largely because of the latter's global profile and his “extremely attractive” abilities when it came to communicator.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more of a celebrity and less of an economic expert,” recalled the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Agendas
Tsipras alleges how Varoufakis had his own motives that involved promoting Varoufakis's books as well as experimenting with his theories using Greece instead of truly fighting for the country's economic stability.
He explained how those negotiations to stave off insolvency were “not just a way to secure improved terms for the country. They became a test, a monumental opportunity to prove the truth of Varoufakis's theories.”
Critical Negotiations
During tense negotiations, Greece came dangerously close to exiting the single currency area.
On the line was not only the country's future and the punishing austerity measures required in exchange for rescue loans by international creditors.
Failed Options
Attempts to secure financing elsewhere, such as a desperate appeal to Russia to buy Greek government bonds, went unanswered.
Assisting the indebted country was tantamount to tossing cash into the garbage, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed Tsipras during their meeting.
Referendum and U-Turn
In July 2015, the punitive bailout terms were put to a public vote, an action which plunged Europe into deeper crisis of identity.
Even though the vote was carried decisively by voters against the cuts, Tsipras was forced but to ignore the result and agree to a bailout package from creditors which proved to be even harsher.
Breaking Point
Tsipras revealed that he started questioning his finance minister 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 the spotlight.”
After Varoufakis proposed a contingency plan involving creating a parallel currency as well as distributing coupons to pensioners, the leader said he realised it was game over questioning Varoufakis: “Can you be serious?”
Enduring Rebuke
Within the book, Tsipras asserts that his former ally demonstrated himself to be “unsuitable for a deal demanding intricate and delicate handling.”
Tsipras further claimed that his confrontational approach left him more and more alone with colleagues, endangered the country, and assisted hawks who were pushing for Grexit.
The retelling of history has been met with fury and stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has kept a deafening silence regarding these claims.
