Within his recently unveiled memoir, named Ithaki, the ex- premier Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism while he reflects on the chaotic period of Greece's financial crisis.
An Unconventional Appointment
In Tsipras's version, Tsipras chose that maverick economist Varoufakis as his finance minister mainly because of his worldwide fame and his highly compelling skills when it came to public orator.
“He was, in reality, more of a star and less of an economist,” wrote Tsipras.
Conflicting Priorities
Tsipras claims how his finance chief had a personal agenda which involved promoting Varoufakis's publications as well as experimenting with his game theories on Greece rather than genuinely advocating its financial survival.
Tsipras explained how the discussions to prevent bankruptcy were “not just a method of achieving improved terms for the country. They became an experiment, a monumental chance to prove the truth of Varoufakis's ideas.”
Critical Talks
During rollercoaster discussions, the country found itself perilously on the brink of exiting the single currency area.
On the line lay both Greece's destiny and the severe austerity measures required in exchange for bailout funds from foreign lenders.
Failed Options
Attempts to find financing from other sources, such as an urgent appeal to Russia to purchase Greek bonds, were rejected.
Assisting Greece was equivalent to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly informed Tsipras in Moscow.
Public Vote and Reversal
In July 2015, those punitive conditions were subjected to a public vote, an action which threw Europe into a deeper crisis of identity.
Even though the referendum was carried decisively by those who opposed the cuts, Tsipras was forced but to reject its outcome then negotiate a bailout package from creditors that proved to be more severe.
Breaking Point
The ex-PM revealed that he began to doubt Varoufakis quite early on.
“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the figure who drew media attention, who graced the front pages of publications globally … he gave the impression he was enjoying his new role.”
After Varoufakis proposed a contingency plan involving creating a secondary currency as well as issuing vouchers to pensioners, the leader knew that it was game over questioning him: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Criticism
In the memoir, Tsipras asserts how Varoufakis demonstrated himself to be “unfit for a deal demanding complex and delicate management.”
Tsipras further claimed that Varoufakis's aggressive approach made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, put Greece at risk, and helped hardliners that were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
The retelling of history has been met with fury and stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas the former minister has kept a deafening silence on the matter.
