Within his newly released autobiography, titled Ithaki, the former prime minister Tsipras does not hold back as he revisits the chaotic period during Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Appointment
In Tsipras's recollections, Tsipras chose the maverick academic Varoufakis to be his treasury head primarily due to his worldwide fame and his highly compelling skills when it came to public orator.
“He was, in reality, more like a personality and less of an economic expert,” stated the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Priorities
Tsipras suggests how his finance chief possessed a personal agenda which included advancing Varoufakis's publications and experimenting with his own game theories on the nation rather than truly fighting for the country's financial survival.
He explained that the discussions to stave off bankruptcy were “not only a method to secure improved terms for Greece. They became a test, an historic chance to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's theories.”
Critical Talks
During tense discussions, the country found itself perilously on the brink of leaving the eurozone.
On the line was both the country's future and those severe austerity measures required in return for rescue loans from foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Options
Efforts to find funds from other sources, such as a desperate plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek government bonds, fell on stony ground.
Assisting the indebted country was tantamount to throwing money in the trash-can, Putin is reputed to have told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Public Vote and U-Turn
In July 2015, those excoriating bailout terms were put to a public vote, a move that threw Europe into a further crisis of identity.
Even though the referendum was carried decisively by voters against austerity, the prime minister was forced to reject its outcome and agree to a bailout package from creditors that proved to be more severe.
Final Straw
Tsipras revealed how he started questioning his finance minister quite early on.
“He was the face of negotiation, the figure who attracted media attention, who appeared on the covers of publications globally … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”
When Varoufakis outlined a contingency plan involving creating a parallel currency and issuing vouchers to pensioners, the leader knew it was the end and asked him: “Are you serious?”
Lasting Criticism
In the book, Tsipras concludes that his former ally demonstrated himself “unfit for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate management.”
Tsipras also claimed that Varoufakis's confrontational style made him increasingly isolated among peers, endangered the country, and assisted hawks who were pushing for Grexit.
This retelling of history has provoked fury along with shock among certain groups, whereas the former minister has so far kept a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
