In a freshly published memoir, called Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Alexis Tsipras pulls no punches as he revisits the turbulent period during Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Appointment
As per Tsipras's recollections, he appointed that maverick academic Yanis Varoufakis to be his finance minister largely due to the latter's global profile along with his highly compelling skills when it came to communicator.
“In reality, he was, truthfully, more of a celebrity rather than an economic expert,” wrote Tsipras.
Clashing Priorities
The former leader alleges that Varoufakis possessed a personal agenda which included promoting his publications as well as testing out his game theories using Greece instead of truly fighting for its financial survival.
Tsipras wrote how the discussions to stave off bankruptcy were “not only a method of achieving a better deal for Greece. They were a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's theories.”
Critical Negotiations
During rollercoaster negotiations, the country came dangerously close to leaving the eurozone.
On the line was not only Greece's future and the harsh cutbacks required in exchange for bailout funds by international creditors.
Unsuccessful Options
Efforts to find funds from other sources, including a desperate plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek bonds, were rejected.
Helping the indebted country was equivalent to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Public Vote Followed by Reversal
In July 2015, the harsh conditions were subjected to a public vote, an action that plunged Europe into deeper crisis of identity.
Although the vote was carried decisively by those who opposed austerity, the prime minister had little option to reject its outcome and agree to a bailout package from creditors which proved to be even harsher.
Final Straw
Tsipras claimed that he began to doubt Varoufakis relatively soon.
“He was the face of negotiation, the man who drew publicity, who graced the front pages of publications the world over … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”
After Varoufakis outlined a contingency plan that included establishing a parallel currency as well as distributing coupons to pensioners, Tsipras knew it was game over questioning him: “Are you serious?”
Lasting Criticism
In the book, the author asserts how his former ally demonstrated himself “unfit for an agreement demanding intricate and sensitive handling.”
Tsipras also claimed that his aggressive approach made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, put Greece at risk, while helped hawks that were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
The retelling of history has provoked anger and shock among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has maintained a deafening silence on the matter.
