In a newly released autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- leader Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism while he examines the chaotic era during Greece's financial crisis.
An Unconventional Appointment
As per Tsipras's version, Tsipras chose that maverick economist Varoufakis as the finance minister primarily because of his international reputation along with his highly compelling abilities when it came to public orator.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more like a star rather than an economic expert,” stated Tsipras.
Conflicting Priorities
Tsipras suggests how his finance chief had his own agenda that included advancing Varoufakis's books as well as testing out his own theories using the nation instead of genuinely fighting for its economic stability.
Tsipras noted how the discussions to avoid insolvency were “not just a method to secure improved terms for Greece. They were a test, an historic opportunity to prove the validity of his economic theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid volatile discussions, Greece found itself dangerously close to leaving the single currency area.
At stake lay both Greece's destiny but also those harsh austerity policies demanded in exchange for rescue loans from foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Options
Attempts to find funds elsewhere, including a desperate appeal to Russia to buy Greek bonds, fell on stony ground.
Assisting the indebted country was equivalent to tossing cash into the garbage, Putin reportedly informed Tsipras during their meeting.
Public Vote and Reversal
In July 2015, the harsh conditions were put to a popular referendum, an action that threw Europe into deeper existential crisis.
Although the referendum was won decisively by those who opposed austerity, Tsipras was forced to reject its outcome and negotiate a bailout package with foreign lenders that proved to be more severe.
Final Straw
The ex-PM revealed how he began to doubt his finance minister quite early on.
“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the figure who attracted publicity, who graced the front pages of publications globally … it seemed he relished his new role.”
After the minister proposed a backup strategy involving creating a secondary currency and issuing coupons to pensioners, the leader said he realised that it was game over and asked him: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Criticism
Within the book, Tsipras asserts that Varoufakis had proved himself to be “unfit for an agreement that required complex and delicate management.”
He further wrote how his aggressive approach left him more and more alone among peers, endangered the country, and helped hawks who were pushing for Grexit.
The retelling of history has provoked anger and stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas Varoufakis has so far kept a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
