Within his freshly published personal account, titled Ithaki, the former premier Alexis Tsipras does not hold back as he reflects on that turbulent period of Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Choice
In the ex-PM's recollections, Tsipras chose that unorthodox academic Varoufakis to be the treasury head mainly because of the latter's worldwide fame and Varoufakis's highly compelling skills when it came to speaker.
“He was, truthfully, more like a star rather than an economic expert,” stated Tsipras.
Conflicting Agendas
The former leader suggests that Varoufakis had his own agenda that included advancing his publications as well as experimenting with his own game theories on the nation instead of truly fighting for its economic stability.
Tsipras noted that the discussions to prevent bankruptcy became “not just a method to secure a better deal for the country. They were an experiment, a monumental opportunity to prove the validity of Varoufakis's theories.”
Critical Talks
During volatile discussions, Greece came perilously on the brink of exiting the eurozone.
At stake lay not only Greece's destiny and those harsh austerity policies demanded in return for rescue loans from foreign lenders.
Failed Options
Efforts to find financing elsewhere, such as a desperate plea to Russia to buy Greek bonds, were rejected.
Assisting Greece was tantamount to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly told his Greek counterpart in Moscow.
Referendum and Reversal
In July 2015, the harsh conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, a move which plunged Europe into a deeper crisis of identity.
Even though the vote was carried resoundingly by those who opposed the cuts, the prime minister had little option but to ignore the result and negotiate a rescue deal from creditors which proved to be even harsher.
Final Straw
Tsipras claimed that he began to doubt Varoufakis quite early on.
“Varoufakis was the public image of negotiation, the man who drew media attention, who graced the front pages of publications the world over … he gave the impression he relished his new role.”
When Varoufakis outlined a backup strategy that included establishing a secondary currency as well as issuing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras knew it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Criticism
Within the book, the author concludes that Varoufakis had proved himself to be “unsuitable for an agreement demanding intricate and sensitive handling.”
Tsipras also wrote that his aggressive approach made him increasingly isolated among peers, endangered the country, while assisted hardliners that were pushing for Grexit.
The retelling of history has been met with anger and shock among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has kept a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
