In a recently unveiled autobiography, called Ithaki, the former leader Tsipras does not hold back as he examines that turbulent period during Greece's economic turmoil.
A Controversial Appointment
According to Tsipras's version, Tsipras appointed the unorthodox economist Varoufakis to be his treasury head largely due to the latter's global profile and his very persuasive skills as a speaker.
“In reality, he was, in reality, more like a star rather than an economic expert,” recalled Tsipras.
Clashing Agendas
The former leader suggests how his finance chief had a personal agenda that involved promoting Varoufakis's publications and testing out his own game theories on the nation instead of truly fighting for the country's economic stability.
Tsipras explained that the negotiations to stave off bankruptcy became “not just a method of achieving improved terms for the country. They were a test, an historic opportunity to prove the truth of his theories.”
Critical Talks
Amid tense negotiations, Greece came dangerously close to exiting the eurozone.
On the line was both the country's destiny but also the severe cutbacks demanded in return for rescue loans from foreign lenders.
Failed Alternatives
Attempts to find financing elsewhere, including an urgent appeal to Russia to buy Greek government bonds, were rejected.
Helping the indebted country was tantamount to throwing money in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.
Public Vote Followed by U-Turn
In July 2015, the punitive conditions were subjected to a public vote, a move which threw Europe into a deeper existential crisis.
Although the vote was won resoundingly by voters against the cuts, the prime minister was forced to ignore the result then negotiate a bailout package from foreign lenders that proved to be even harsher.
Final Straw
Tsipras claimed how he started questioning his finance minister relatively soon.
“He was the face of negotiation, the figure who attracted media attention, who graced the covers of magazines the world over … he gave the impression he relished the spotlight.”
After Varoufakis proposed a contingency plan that included creating a secondary currency as well as distributing vouchers to retirees, the leader knew it was the end and asked him: “Can you be serious?”
Enduring Rebuke
Within the book, Tsipras asserts that Varoufakis had proved himself to be “unsuitable for a deal that required complex and delicate management.”
Tsipras also claimed that his aggressive style left him increasingly isolated among peers, endangered the country, and helped hawks that were pushing for Grexit.
This retelling of history has been met with anger and stunned disbelief among certain groups, while Varoufakis has maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.
