In a newly released autobiography, named Ithaki, the ex- leader Alexis Tsipras does not hold back while he revisits that turbulent era during Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Choice
As per Tsipras's account, he appointed that unorthodox economist Varoufakis to be the finance minister primarily due to the latter's worldwide fame along with Varoufakis's very persuasive abilities as a speaker.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more of a personality rather than an economic expert,” recalled Tsipras.
Clashing Agendas
Tsipras claims that Varoufakis had his own agenda which included advancing his books and experimenting with his own game theories on the nation instead of truly fighting for its economic stability.
Tsipras explained that those discussions to stave off bankruptcy were “not just a way of achieving a better deal for Greece. They were an experiment, a monumental opportunity to prove the truth of Varoufakis's theories.”
High-Stakes Negotiations
Amid rollercoaster discussions, Greece found itself dangerously on the brink of leaving the eurozone.
On the line was not only Greece's destiny and those severe cutbacks demanded in return for rescue loans from international creditors.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Efforts to find funds from other sources, including an urgent plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek bonds, were rejected.
Helping Greece would be tantamount to throwing money into the garbage, the Russian leader reportedly informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Referendum Followed by Reversal
In July 2015, the excoriating conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, a move which threw the EU into a deeper existential crisis.
Even though the vote was carried resoundingly by voters who opposed the cuts, the prime minister was forced but to reject its outcome and agree to a bailout package with creditors which proved to be tougher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed that he began to doubt his finance minister relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the public image of negotiation, the figure who drew publicity, who graced the covers of magazines the world over … it seemed he relished his new role.”
After the minister proposed a contingency plan involving establishing a parallel currency as well as distributing coupons to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”
Enduring Rebuke
Within the book, Tsipras asserts how Varoufakis demonstrated himself to be “unfit for a deal demanding complex and delicate management.”
He further wrote that his aggressive approach made him increasingly isolated among peers, put Greece at risk, and assisted hardliners who were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
This account of history has been met with fury and stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas the former minister has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
