In a recently unveiled personal account, named Ithaki, the ex- premier Alexis Tsipras pulls no punches while he revisits that chaotic period of Greece's financial crisis.
An Unconventional Appointment
According to the ex-PM's recollections, he appointed that unorthodox economist Varoufakis as the finance minister mainly because of the latter's international reputation along with his highly compelling abilities when it came to speaker.
“In reality, he was, truthfully, more like a personality and less of an economic expert,” stated the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Priorities
The former leader alleges that Varoufakis had his own motives that involved advancing his books and testing out his theories using the nation instead of truly advocating the country's economic stability.
Tsipras wrote how those discussions to stave off bankruptcy were “not just a way of achieving improved terms for Greece. They became a test, an historic opportunity to demonstrate the validity of his ideas.”
Critical Negotiations
During tense discussions, Greece found itself perilously close to leaving the eurozone.
On the line lay not only Greece's destiny but also the severe cutbacks demanded in return for rescue loans from international creditors.
Failed Alternatives
Attempts to secure funds from other sources, such as an urgent appeal to the Kremlin to buy Greek bonds, went unanswered.
Helping Greece was equivalent to throwing money in the trash-can, Putin reportedly informed Tsipras in Moscow.
Public Vote and Reversal
That summer, those excoriating conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, a move that plunged Europe into further crisis of identity.
Even though the vote was won decisively by voters who opposed austerity, Tsipras was forced but to reject its outcome then agree to a rescue deal from foreign lenders which proved to be tougher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM revealed that he began to doubt Varoufakis relatively soon.
“He was the face of the talks, the man who attracted publicity, who graced the front pages of publications the world over … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.”
When the minister proposed a contingency plan that included creating a parallel currency as well as distributing coupons to retirees, the leader knew it was the end and asked him: “Are you serious?”
Enduring Criticism
Within the book, the author asserts that his former ally had proved himself “unsuitable for an agreement that required intricate and delicate management.”
He further claimed how Varoufakis's confrontational style made him increasingly isolated among peers, put Greece at risk, and helped hawks who were pushing for a Greek exit from the euro.
The account of events has been met with fury and shock in some quarters, whereas the former minister has so far kept a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
