Within his recently unveiled memoir, named Ithaki, the ex- leader Tsipras spares no criticism while he revisits that chaotic period of Greece's economic turmoil.
An Unconventional Appointment
In the ex-PM's version, he chose that maverick academic Varoufakis to be his finance minister primarily due to the latter's global profile and Varoufakis's very persuasive abilities as a communicator.
“He was, truthfully, more of a personality rather than an economic expert,” recalled the 51-year-old.
Clashing Agendas
Tsipras claims that Varoufakis had a personal agenda that included promoting his publications as well as testing out his game theories on the nation instead of truly advocating the country's economic stability.
He noted how those negotiations to avoid insolvency became “not only a way of achieving a better deal for Greece. They were a test, a monumental chance to prove the truth of his ideas.”
High-Stakes Talks
Amid rollercoaster discussions, the country came dangerously close to leaving the eurozone.
On the line was not only Greece's destiny and those punishing cutbacks required in return for financial aid by foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Options
Attempts to find funds elsewhere, including an urgent plea to Russia to buy Greek bonds, went unanswered.
Assisting Greece was equivalent to throwing money in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly told Tsipras in Moscow.
Referendum Followed by U-Turn
That summer, those excoriating conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, a move that threw Europe into a deeper crisis of identity.
Even though the vote was won decisively by voters against the cuts, the prime minister had little option to reject its outcome then negotiate a rescue deal with creditors that proved to be tougher.
Final Straw
Tsipras revealed that he began to doubt Varoufakis relatively soon.
“He was the public image of negotiation, the man who attracted publicity, who appeared on the front pages of magazines the world over … it seemed he was enjoying the spotlight.”
When Varoufakis proposed a contingency plan involving creating a parallel currency and issuing vouchers to pensioners, the leader knew it was the end and asked him: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Criticism
In the memoir, the author asserts how Varoufakis had proved himself to be “unfit for a deal demanding complex and sensitive handling.”
He further claimed how Varoufakis's aggressive style made him increasingly isolated among peers, endangered the country, and helped hardliners who were advocating Grexit.
This retelling of events has provoked fury and shock in some quarters, whereas the former minister has so far maintained a deafening silence on the matter.
