In a recently unveiled autobiography, titled Ithaki, the former prime minister Tsipras spares no criticism as he revisits the turbulent period of Greece's economic turmoil.
An Unconventional Choice
As per the ex-PM's account, Tsipras selected that unorthodox economist Varoufakis to be his finance minister largely because of his worldwide fame along with his highly compelling skills when it came to public orator.
“He was, truthfully, more of a star and less of an economic expert,” stated Tsipras.
Conflicting Agendas
The former leader alleges that Varoufakis had his own agenda that involved promoting Varoufakis's publications as well as experimenting with his game theories using the nation rather than genuinely advocating its financial survival.
Tsipras noted how those discussions to stave off insolvency became “not only a method of achieving improved terms for the country. They were a test, a monumental chance to prove the truth of Varoufakis's theories.”
Critical Negotiations
During tense discussions, Greece found itself perilously close to leaving the single currency area.
On the line lay not only the country's future and the severe austerity policies required in return for bailout funds by international creditors.
Failed Options
Efforts to find financing from other sources, such as an urgent appeal to Russia to buy Greek bonds, were rejected.
Assisting the indebted country would be equivalent to throwing money in the trash-can, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed his Greek counterpart in Moscow.
Referendum Followed by Reversal
In July 2015, the punitive conditions were subjected to a public vote, a move which plunged the EU into a deeper crisis of identity.
Even though the referendum was carried decisively by voters who opposed austerity, Tsipras had little option but to ignore the result and agree to a rescue deal from creditors which turned out to be more severe.
Final Straw
Tsipras revealed how he began to doubt Varoufakis quite early on.
“Varoufakis was the public image of the talks, the man who drew publicity, who appeared on the front pages of publications the world over … it seemed he was enjoying the spotlight.”
When the minister proposed a contingency plan that included creating a parallel currency as well as issuing coupons to pensioners, Tsipras knew that it was the end and asked him: “Can you be serious?”
Enduring Criticism
In the book, the author asserts that Varoufakis had proved himself “unfit for a deal that required intricate and sensitive handling.”
Tsipras further claimed how his aggressive approach left him more and more alone among peers, endangered the country, and helped hawks who were advocating Grexit.
The retelling of events has been met with fury along with stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas the former minister has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
