In a freshly published autobiography, called Ithaki, the former leader Tsipras does not hold back as he revisits the turbulent period of Greece's economic turmoil.
An Unconventional Appointment
In the ex-PM's recollections, Tsipras chose the unorthodox economist Varoufakis as his finance minister primarily because of the latter's worldwide fame and Varoufakis's highly compelling abilities when it came to communicator.
“In reality, he was, actually, more of a personality and less of an economist,” stated the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Priorities
The former leader claims that his finance chief possessed a personal motives that included advancing Varoufakis's books and experimenting with his own theories on Greece instead of genuinely fighting for its financial survival.
He wrote that the negotiations to stave off insolvency became “not only a way to secure improved terms for the country. They were a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the validity of his ideas.”
Critical Negotiations
During tense discussions, the country found itself perilously close to leaving the eurozone.
On the line was both the country's future and the punishing austerity policies demanded in return for rescue loans by international creditors.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Attempts to find financing elsewhere, including a desperate appeal to Russia to buy Greek government bonds, fell on stony ground.
Helping Greece would be tantamount to throwing money into the garbage, Putin is reputed to have told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Referendum Followed by Reversal
In July 2015, the harsh conditions were subjected to a public vote, an action that plunged Europe into further existential crisis.
Even though the vote was carried resoundingly by voters against austerity, the prime minister had little option but to reject its outcome then negotiate a rescue deal with foreign lenders that proved to be even harsher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed how he started questioning Varoufakis quite early on.
“He was the face of the talks, the figure who drew publicity, who graced the covers of publications globally … he gave the impression he was enjoying his new role.”
After Varoufakis outlined a backup strategy that included establishing a secondary currency and issuing coupons to pensioners, the leader said he realised that it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Can you be serious?”
Lasting Rebuke
In the book, Tsipras concludes how Varoufakis demonstrated himself “unsuitable for an agreement demanding complex and sensitive management.”
Tsipras further wrote that Varoufakis's confrontational approach left him more and more alone with colleagues, put Greece at risk, and helped hawks that were pushing for Grexit.
The account of events has provoked anger and shock among certain groups, while the former minister has maintained a deafening silence regarding these claims.
