In a recently unveiled autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism as he examines that turbulent era during Greece's financial crisis.
An Unconventional Appointment
As per Tsipras's recollections, he selected that unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis to be the finance minister mainly due to the latter's international reputation and Varoufakis's very persuasive skills as a communicator.
“He was, truthfully, more like a personality rather than an economist,” stated the 51-year-old.
Conflicting Agendas
Tsipras claims how Varoufakis possessed a personal motives which included advancing his books as well as experimenting with his game theories using Greece instead of genuinely fighting for the country's financial survival.
Tsipras explained how those discussions to stave off bankruptcy were “not only a way to secure improved terms for the country. They became a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the validity of his economic theories.”
Critical Talks
During tense discussions, Greece found itself perilously close to leaving the single currency area.
On the line lay not only the country's future but also the harsh cutbacks required in return for financial aid by foreign lenders.
Failed Alternatives
Attempts to find funds elsewhere, including a desperate plea to Russia to purchase Greek bonds, fell on stony ground.
Assisting the indebted country would be equivalent to throwing money in the trash-can, Putin reportedly informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Public Vote Followed by U-Turn
That summer, the punitive conditions were put to a popular referendum, a move which threw Europe into deeper existential crisis.
Even though the vote was carried decisively by those who opposed the cuts, the prime minister had little option to ignore the result then agree to a rescue deal from creditors which proved to be tougher.
Final Straw
Tsipras claimed how he began to doubt his finance minister relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the man who attracted media attention, who graced the covers of magazines globally … he gave the impression he was enjoying his new role.”
When Varoufakis outlined a contingency plan involving establishing a secondary currency as well as issuing coupons to retirees, Tsipras knew that it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Can you be serious?”
Lasting Rebuke
Within the memoir, Tsipras concludes how his former ally demonstrated himself “unsuitable for a deal that required intricate and delicate management.”
Tsipras also claimed how Varoufakis's confrontational style left him increasingly isolated among peers, endangered the country, and helped hardliners that were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
This account of history has been met with anger along with shock among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
