Within his newly released autobiography, titled Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Tsipras does not hold back as he examines the turbulent period during Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Appointment
According to the ex-PM's version, he chose that maverick economist Varoufakis as the treasury head primarily because of the latter's worldwide fame along with Varoufakis's very persuasive skills as a speaker.
“In reality, he was, truthfully, more like a personality and less of an economist,” wrote the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Priorities
Tsipras alleges that Varoufakis possessed his own agenda that included advancing Varoufakis's publications as well as testing out his game theories on Greece instead of genuinely fighting for the country's economic stability.
He wrote how the negotiations to avoid bankruptcy became “not just a method to secure improved terms for Greece. They were an experiment, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the validity of his theories.”
High-Stakes Negotiations
Amid rollercoaster discussions, Greece came dangerously on the brink of exiting the single currency area.
At stake lay not only Greece's future but also those harsh cutbacks required in exchange for financial aid from international creditors.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Efforts to secure funds elsewhere, such as a desperate appeal to the Kremlin to buy Greek government bonds, were rejected.
Assisting the indebted country was tantamount to throwing money into the garbage, the Russian leader reportedly informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Referendum and U-Turn
That summer, the harsh conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, a move that threw the EU into a further crisis of identity.
Even though the referendum was won resoundingly by those against the cuts, the prime minister was forced to reject its outcome then negotiate a rescue deal with creditors which turned out to be even harsher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed how he began to doubt his finance minister quite early on.
“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the figure who attracted media attention, who graced the front pages of magazines the world over … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.”
When Varoufakis proposed a contingency plan that included establishing a parallel currency as well as distributing coupons to pensioners, the leader said he realised it was game over and asked him: “Is this for real?”
Lasting Rebuke
In the book, Tsipras concludes how Varoufakis demonstrated himself to be “unfit for an agreement that required intricate and sensitive management.”
He further wrote how Varoufakis's aggressive approach made him more and more alone with colleagues, put Greece at risk, and assisted hawks that were pushing for Grexit.
The account of history has provoked fury and stunned disbelief among certain groups, while the former minister has maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
