In a recently unveiled personal account, called Ithaki, the former prime minister Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism while he examines that chaotic era during Greece's financial crisis.
A Controversial Choice
As per the ex-PM's account, he chose that maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis as the finance minister primarily due to the latter's international reputation along with his “extremely attractive” abilities as a speaker.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more of a personality rather than an economist,” wrote the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Agendas
Tsipras claims how Varoufakis had a personal agenda that included advancing Varoufakis's publications as well as experimenting with his game theories using the nation rather than genuinely fighting for its financial survival.
Tsipras explained that the negotiations to prevent insolvency became “not just a way to secure a better deal for the country. They were an experiment, a monumental chance to prove the truth of Varoufakis's theories.”
Critical Negotiations
Amid rollercoaster discussions, Greece found itself dangerously close to exiting the single currency area.
At stake was both the country's destiny and those punishing austerity policies demanded in return for rescue loans from international creditors.
Failed Options
Attempts to secure financing elsewhere, such as an urgent appeal to the Kremlin to buy Greek government bonds, fell on stony ground.
Assisting Greece would be equivalent to throwing money into the garbage, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed Tsipras in Moscow.
Public Vote Followed by Reversal
In July 2015, the harsh conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, a move which plunged the EU into a further existential crisis.
Even though the referendum was carried decisively by those who opposed the cuts, Tsipras was forced but to ignore the result then negotiate a rescue deal from creditors which proved to be even harsher.
Final Straw
Tsipras revealed that he started questioning Varoufakis quite early on.
“He was the face of the talks, the man who drew publicity, who graced the covers of magazines globally … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”
When the minister proposed a backup strategy that included establishing a parallel currency as well as issuing vouchers to pensioners, the leader knew it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Can you be serious?”
Enduring Criticism
Within the book, Tsipras concludes that his former ally demonstrated himself “unfit for an agreement demanding complex and sensitive handling.”
Tsipras also claimed that his aggressive style made him more and more alone with colleagues, endangered the country, and assisted hawks that were pushing for Grexit.
The retelling of history has been met with fury along with stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas the former minister has so far maintained a deafening silence regarding these claims.
