Within his freshly published autobiography, titled Ithaki, the former premier Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism while he examines the chaotic period of Greece's economic turmoil.
An Unconventional Choice
As per Tsipras's recollections, Tsipras chose the maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis as the treasury head mainly because of the latter's worldwide fame along with his “extremely attractive” abilities when it came to public orator.
“He was, truthfully, more of a star rather than an economist,” recalled Tsipras.
Clashing Priorities
The former leader alleges that his finance chief possessed a personal agenda which involved promoting his books as well as testing out his own game theories using Greece rather than genuinely advocating the country's economic stability.
He explained how the negotiations to avoid insolvency became “not just a method to secure improved terms for Greece. They became a test, a monumental chance to demonstrate the truth of his theories.”
Critical Talks
During tense discussions, the country found itself dangerously close to leaving the single currency area.
On the line lay both Greece's destiny and the severe austerity measures demanded in return for rescue loans from foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Options
Efforts to find funds elsewhere, such as an urgent appeal to Russia to purchase Greek bonds, were rejected.
Helping the indebted country was tantamount to throwing money into the garbage, Putin reportedly informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Referendum and Reversal
That summer, the harsh bailout terms were subjected to a popular referendum, a move which plunged the EU into deeper existential crisis.
Although the referendum was won resoundingly by those who opposed the cuts, the prime minister was forced to reject its outcome then agree to a rescue deal from foreign lenders which turned out to be tougher.
Final Straw
Tsipras revealed how he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.
“He was the public image of negotiation, the figure who attracted publicity, who appeared on the front pages of publications the world over … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”
After Varoufakis proposed a contingency plan that included creating a parallel currency as well as issuing vouchers to retirees, Tsipras knew it was game over and asked Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Criticism
Within the book, the author concludes how his former ally had proved himself “unsuitable for an agreement that required intricate and delicate management.”
He also wrote that his aggressive style left him more and more alone among peers, endangered the country, and assisted hardliners who were advocating Grexit.
This account of history has provoked anger along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, while the former minister has kept a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
