In a newly released autobiography, named Ithaki, the ex- leader Tsipras pulls no punches as he revisits that chaotic period of Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Choice
In the ex-PM's recollections, Tsipras appointed the unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis to be his treasury head primarily due to the latter's international reputation along with Varoufakis's highly compelling abilities when it came to public orator.
“He was, truthfully, more like a personality and less of an economic expert,” stated the 51-year-old.
Clashing Agendas
Tsipras claims how Varoufakis had his own agenda that included advancing his publications and experimenting with his own game theories using Greece instead of genuinely advocating the country's economic stability.
He explained that the talks to stave off bankruptcy were “not only a way of achieving improved terms for Greece. They became a test, an historic chance to demonstrate the validity of his economic theories.”
High-Stakes Talks
During tense negotiations, Greece came perilously on the brink of exiting the eurozone.
At stake lay not only the country's destiny but also those severe austerity measures demanded in exchange for financial aid from foreign lenders.
Failed Alternatives
Efforts to secure funds from other sources, including an urgent plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek bonds, were rejected.
Assisting Greece was equivalent to tossing cash into the garbage, Putin is reputed to have informed Tsipras during their meeting.
Referendum and Reversal
In July 2015, those excoriating conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, an action that threw the EU into deeper crisis of identity.
Although the referendum was won resoundingly by those against austerity, Tsipras was forced but to ignore the result then negotiate a bailout package with creditors that turned out to be even harsher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed how he started questioning Varoufakis quite early on.
“Varoufakis was the face of negotiation, the man who drew media attention, who appeared on the front pages of magazines the world over … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.”
When Varoufakis outlined a contingency plan that included establishing a parallel currency and distributing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras knew that it was game over questioning Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Criticism
In the memoir, the author asserts that Varoufakis demonstrated himself to be “unsuitable for a deal that required complex and delicate handling.”
Tsipras further claimed how his aggressive style made him more and more alone with colleagues, endangered the country, while helped hawks who were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
This retelling of history has provoked anger along with shock among certain groups, while the former minister has kept a deafening silence on the matter.
