Within his freshly published autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Alexis Tsipras pulls no punches as he reflects on the turbulent period during Greece's economic turmoil.
An Unconventional Appointment
In the ex-PM's account, he selected that maverick academic Yanis Varoufakis as the treasury head largely due to his worldwide fame along with Varoufakis's “extremely attractive” abilities when it came to public orator.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more of a celebrity and less of an economic expert,” stated Tsipras.
Conflicting Agendas
Tsipras suggests how Varoufakis possessed a personal agenda which included advancing his publications as well as testing out his own economic models on Greece rather than truly fighting for its financial survival.
He noted how those negotiations to stave off bankruptcy became “not only a way to secure improved terms for the country. They became a test, an historic opportunity to demonstrate the validity of his economic theories.”
High-Stakes Talks
During volatile discussions, Greece came dangerously close to exiting the eurozone.
At stake lay not only the country's future and those punishing austerity policies required in exchange for financial aid by foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Options
Attempts to find financing from other sources, such as a desperate plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek government bonds, fell on stony ground.
Helping the indebted country would be equivalent to tossing cash into the garbage, Putin reportedly informed his Greek counterpart in Moscow.
Referendum and U-Turn
In July 2015, the harsh conditions were put to a public vote, a move which plunged the EU into further crisis of identity.
Although the vote was carried resoundingly by those who opposed the cuts, Tsipras was forced to reject its outcome then agree to a rescue deal from foreign lenders which turned out to be tougher.
Breaking Point
Tsipras claimed that he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.
“He was the public image of negotiation, the figure who drew publicity, who appeared on the front pages of magazines the world over … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”
After the minister outlined a contingency plan involving creating a secondary currency and issuing coupons to retirees, Tsipras said he realised it was game over questioning him: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Rebuke
Within the memoir, the author concludes that his former ally had proved himself to be “unfit for an agreement demanding intricate and sensitive handling.”
Tsipras further claimed how his aggressive style left him more and more alone with colleagues, put Greece at risk, and assisted hawks who were pushing for a Greek exit from the euro.
The account of history has provoked anger and stunned disbelief among certain groups, while the former minister has so far maintained a deafening silence regarding these claims.
