Within his newly released autobiography, titled Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Alexis Tsipras pulls no punches as he examines that turbulent era of Greece's economic turmoil.
An Unconventional Choice
According to Tsipras's account, Tsipras selected the unorthodox academic Varoufakis as his treasury head mainly due to the latter's worldwide fame and his very persuasive abilities as a speaker.
“He was, truthfully, more like a star and less of an economist,” wrote Tsipras.
Clashing Agendas
The former leader alleges that Varoufakis had his own agenda that involved promoting Varoufakis's publications and testing out his own game theories on the nation instead of truly fighting for its financial survival.
Tsipras noted how the discussions to prevent bankruptcy became “not only a way to secure improved terms for the country. They were an experiment, an historic opportunity to demonstrate the validity of Varoufakis's theories.”
Critical Negotiations
During volatile discussions, the country found itself perilously on the brink of exiting the single currency area.
On the line was not only Greece's destiny and the harsh austerity measures demanded in exchange for financial aid by international creditors.
Failed Options
Attempts to find funds from other sources, such as a desperate appeal to the Kremlin to purchase Greek bonds, went unanswered.
Helping the indebted country was equivalent to throwing money in the trash-can, Putin reportedly informed Tsipras during their meeting.
Referendum and Reversal
In July 2015, the punitive conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, a move which plunged the EU into further crisis of identity.
Although the vote was won resoundingly by those against austerity, Tsipras was forced but to reject its outcome and negotiate a rescue deal from foreign lenders which proved to be even harsher.
Final Straw
Tsipras revealed how he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.
“He was the public image of the talks, the figure who attracted publicity, who appeared on the covers of publications globally … it seemed he was enjoying the spotlight.”
When the minister proposed a contingency plan that included creating a secondary currency and distributing coupons to retirees, the leader knew it was game over questioning him: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Criticism
In the book, the author asserts how his former ally demonstrated himself to be “unsuitable for a deal demanding complex and sensitive handling.”
Tsipras further claimed how his aggressive style made him more and more alone with colleagues, endangered the country, and assisted hardliners who were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
This account of history has been met with anger along with stunned disbelief in some quarters, while the former minister has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
