In a freshly published autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- leader Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism while he revisits the turbulent era of Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Appointment
According to Tsipras's account, he appointed the maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis to be his finance minister largely due to his worldwide fame and his “extremely attractive” abilities when it came to public orator.
“He was, in reality, more like a celebrity and less of an economist,” stated Tsipras.
Conflicting Priorities
Tsipras alleges that Varoufakis had a personal agenda which included advancing Varoufakis's publications and experimenting with his economic models on the nation instead of genuinely fighting for the country's economic stability.
Tsipras wrote that the discussions to stave off bankruptcy became “not just a way of achieving improved terms for the country. They became a test, an historic chance to demonstrate the truth of his theories.”
High-Stakes Negotiations
Amid rollercoaster negotiations, Greece found itself perilously close to exiting the eurozone.
On the line lay not only Greece's future but also those punishing austerity policies demanded in return for financial aid from international creditors.
Failed Alternatives
Efforts to secure financing elsewhere, such as a desperate appeal to the Kremlin to buy Greek bonds, were rejected.
Helping Greece was tantamount to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader is reputed to have told his Greek counterpart in Moscow.
Public Vote Followed by Reversal
In July 2015, the harsh conditions were put to a public vote, an action that plunged Europe into further crisis of identity.
Although the vote was won resoundingly by those against austerity, the prime minister had little option but to reject its outcome then negotiate a rescue deal with foreign lenders which proved to be more severe.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed that he began to doubt his finance minister relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the figure who attracted publicity, who appeared on the covers of publications the world over … it seemed he relished his new role.”
After the minister outlined a contingency plan involving establishing a parallel currency and issuing vouchers to pensioners, the leader knew it was the end and asked him: “Are you serious?”
Lasting Rebuke
Within the memoir, Tsipras asserts that his former ally demonstrated himself “unsuitable for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate handling.”
He further claimed that his confrontational style made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, put Greece at risk, while assisted hardliners who were pushing for a Greek exit from the euro.
This retelling of history has been met with fury along with shock in some quarters, whereas Varoufakis has so far kept a deafening silence regarding these claims.
