In a freshly published autobiography, titled Ithaki, the ex- leader Tsipras does not hold back while he reflects on the turbulent period during Greece's debt drama.
A Controversial Choice
According to Tsipras's recollections, Tsipras chose that unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis to be his finance minister largely due to the latter's global profile along with Varoufakis's highly compelling skills as a public orator.
“He was, truthfully, more of a celebrity and less of an economic expert,” recalled Tsipras.
Clashing Agendas
The former leader suggests how Varoufakis had a personal agenda which involved advancing his books as well as testing out his economic models using the nation instead of genuinely fighting for its financial survival.
He wrote that the discussions to stave off bankruptcy were “not only a method to secure a better deal for Greece. They became an experiment, a monumental chance to demonstrate the truth of his economic theories.”
Critical Talks
During tense discussions, Greece found itself dangerously close to leaving the single currency area.
At stake lay both the country's future but also those harsh cutbacks demanded in exchange for rescue loans from international creditors.
Failed Options
Attempts to find funds from other sources, such as an urgent plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek bonds, went unanswered.
Assisting Greece was tantamount to throwing money in the trash-can, Putin is reputed to have told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Public Vote Followed by U-Turn
In July 2015, those excoriating bailout terms were put to a popular referendum, a move that plunged Europe into further crisis of identity.
Although the vote was carried decisively by voters who opposed austerity, the prime minister had little option to reject its outcome then negotiate a rescue deal from foreign lenders which proved to be tougher.
Final Straw
The ex-PM claimed how he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.
“Varoufakis was the public image of negotiation, the figure who drew publicity, who appeared on the covers of publications globally … he gave the impression he was enjoying his new role.”
After the minister proposed a backup strategy that included establishing a secondary currency as well as distributing vouchers to retirees, the leader knew that it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Rebuke
In the memoir, Tsipras concludes that Varoufakis demonstrated himself “unsuitable for an agreement demanding intricate and sensitive management.”
Tsipras also wrote how Varoufakis's confrontational style left him more and more alone among peers, put Greece at risk, and assisted hardliners that were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.
The retelling of history has been met with anger and stunned disbelief in some quarters, whereas Varoufakis has maintained a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
