In a newly released autobiography, titled Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Alexis Tsipras does not hold back as he examines the chaotic era of Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Appointment
In the ex-PM's account, Tsipras appointed that unorthodox academic Varoufakis as his finance minister mainly due to the latter's worldwide fame and his “extremely attractive” abilities as a speaker.
“In reality, he was, actually, more of a star rather than an economic expert,” wrote the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Priorities
Tsipras suggests that Varoufakis possessed his own agenda that included advancing Varoufakis's publications as well as testing out his own economic models using the nation rather than genuinely fighting for the country's economic stability.
He explained how the negotiations to prevent insolvency became “not just a method to secure a better deal for the country. They became a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the validity of his economic theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid rollercoaster negotiations, the country found itself dangerously close to leaving the eurozone.
On the line lay not only Greece's destiny but also those harsh austerity measures demanded in return for bailout funds from foreign lenders.
Unsuccessful Options
Attempts to find funds from other sources, such as a desperate plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek government bonds, were rejected.
Assisting Greece was equivalent to throwing money into the garbage, Putin reportedly told his Greek counterpart in Moscow.
Public Vote Followed by Reversal
That summer, the punitive conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, an action which plunged Europe into a deeper existential crisis.
Although the vote was won resoundingly by those who opposed the cuts, the prime minister was forced to ignore the result then negotiate a bailout package with creditors that proved to be more severe.
Breaking Point
Tsipras revealed how he began to doubt Varoufakis relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the public image of the talks, the man who attracted media attention, who graced the covers of publications globally … he gave the impression he relished the spotlight.”
After Varoufakis outlined a contingency plan that included establishing a parallel currency and issuing coupons to pensioners, Tsipras knew it was game over questioning Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Rebuke
Within the memoir, the author concludes how his former ally had proved himself “unsuitable for an agreement that required complex and sensitive management.”
He also claimed that his confrontational approach made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, endangered the country, and assisted hawks that were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
This retelling of history has provoked fury along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas the former minister has maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
