Within his newly released memoir, called Ithaki, the ex- premier Alexis Tsipras pulls no punches as he reflects on that chaotic period of Greece's economic turmoil.
An Unconventional Appointment
In the ex-PM's account, Tsipras chose that maverick economist Varoufakis as his treasury head largely due to the latter's worldwide fame and his highly compelling abilities as a speaker.
“He was, actually, more like a star rather than an economist,” wrote the 51-year-old.
Clashing Agendas
Tsipras claims that Varoufakis possessed his own agenda that included advancing his books and testing out his economic models on the nation instead of genuinely advocating its financial survival.
He explained that the discussions to prevent bankruptcy became “not just a way of achieving improved terms for Greece. They became a test, an historic opportunity to prove the validity of Varoufakis's ideas.”
Critical Talks
During rollercoaster discussions, the country came dangerously close to exiting the single currency area.
On the line lay not only the country's destiny and those severe cutbacks demanded in return for rescue loans by international creditors.
Unsuccessful Options
Efforts to find funds elsewhere, such as a desperate appeal to Russia to purchase Greek government bonds, went unanswered.
Helping Greece was tantamount to throwing money into the garbage, the Russian leader reportedly informed Tsipras during their meeting.
Referendum Followed by Reversal
In July 2015, the excoriating conditions were put to a popular referendum, an action which plunged Europe into deeper crisis of identity.
Although the vote was won decisively by those against austerity, Tsipras was forced but to reject its outcome then negotiate a bailout package with foreign lenders that turned out to be tougher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed that he began to doubt Varoufakis quite early on.
“He was the public image of the talks, the man who drew publicity, who appeared on the front pages of magazines the world over … it seemed he was enjoying his new role.”
After the minister proposed a backup strategy that included creating a parallel currency and distributing vouchers to retirees, Tsipras knew that it was game over and asked him: “Can you be serious?”
Lasting Criticism
In the book, Tsipras asserts that his former ally had proved himself “unfit for an agreement that required intricate and delicate handling.”
He also claimed that his aggressive style made him more and more alone among peers, endangered the country, and assisted hawks that were advocating Grexit.
This retelling of history has provoked fury and stunned disbelief among certain groups, while the former minister has kept a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
