Within his newly released personal account, named Ithaki, the former leader Tsipras spares no criticism as he revisits that chaotic era during Greece's financial crisis.
A Controversial Appointment
As per the ex-PM's version, he selected the maverick economist Varoufakis to be his treasury head mainly due to the latter's global profile and his “extremely attractive” abilities as a communicator.
“He was, actually, more like a personality rather than an economist,” wrote the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Priorities
Tsipras claims how his finance chief possessed a personal agenda which included advancing Varoufakis's books as well as testing out his game theories using Greece instead of truly fighting for its financial survival.
Tsipras noted that those negotiations to avoid bankruptcy became “not only a way to secure a better deal for the country. They were an experiment, a monumental chance to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's economic theories.”
Critical Talks
During volatile discussions, the country found itself perilously on the brink of leaving the eurozone.
On the line was not only Greece's future but also the harsh austerity measures demanded in return for rescue loans by foreign lenders.
Failed Alternatives
Efforts to find funds elsewhere, including an urgent plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek government bonds, fell on stony ground.
Helping the indebted country was tantamount to tossing cash into the garbage, the Russian leader reportedly informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Referendum and Reversal
In July 2015, the harsh bailout terms were subjected to a public vote, an action that threw Europe into a deeper crisis of identity.
Although the vote was carried resoundingly by those who opposed austerity, Tsipras was forced to reject its outcome then negotiate a rescue deal from creditors that turned out to be tougher.
Breaking Point
The ex-PM revealed that he started questioning his finance minister relatively soon.
“He was the face of the talks, the figure who drew media attention, who graced the front pages of magazines globally … he gave the impression he relished his new role.”
When Varoufakis proposed a contingency plan involving establishing a secondary currency as well as issuing coupons to retirees, the leader knew it was game over questioning Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Criticism
Within the memoir, Tsipras concludes how his former ally had proved himself “unfit for an agreement demanding intricate and sensitive management.”
He also wrote how his confrontational style left him increasingly isolated with colleagues, put Greece at risk, and helped hardliners that were advocating Grexit.
The retelling of events has provoked anger and shock among certain groups, while the former minister has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
