In a recently unveiled autobiography, named Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Alexis Tsipras pulls no punches as he revisits that chaotic era of Greece's financial crisis.
A Controversial Choice
As per Tsipras's recollections, Tsipras selected that maverick academic Yanis Varoufakis as his treasury head largely because of the latter's worldwide fame along with his highly compelling abilities when it came to communicator.
“He was, in reality, more like a celebrity rather than an economist,” wrote Tsipras.
Clashing Priorities
Tsipras claims how his finance chief possessed his own motives which involved advancing Varoufakis's publications and testing out his game theories using the nation rather than truly advocating its economic stability.
Tsipras explained how those negotiations to stave off insolvency were “not only a method of achieving improved terms for Greece. They were a test, an historic opportunity to prove the validity of his economic theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid tense discussions, Greece found itself dangerously on the brink of leaving the eurozone.
On the line lay not only Greece's destiny but also the punishing austerity policies demanded in return for rescue loans from international creditors.
Failed Options
Efforts to find funds elsewhere, such as an urgent plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek bonds, fell on stony ground.
Helping the indebted country was tantamount to tossing cash into the garbage, Putin is reputed to have told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Public Vote Followed by U-Turn
That summer, those harsh conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, an action that plunged Europe into deeper crisis of identity.
Although the referendum was carried decisively by those against the cuts, Tsipras was forced to ignore the result and agree to a rescue deal from foreign lenders that turned out to be even harsher.
Breaking Point
Tsipras claimed how he started questioning his finance minister quite early on.
“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the man who drew publicity, who graced the front pages of publications globally … it seemed he relished the spotlight.”
When Varoufakis outlined a backup strategy involving establishing a parallel currency as well as issuing vouchers to pensioners, the leader said he realised it was the end and asked him: “Is this for real?”
Enduring Rebuke
Within the memoir, the author concludes that his former ally had proved himself “unfit for a deal that required complex and delicate management.”
Tsipras also claimed how his aggressive style made him more and more alone with colleagues, endangered the country, and assisted 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 the former minister has so far kept a conspicuous quiet on the matter.
