Ex-PM Tsipras Claims Varoufakis Was ‘Inappropriate’ for the role of Greek Finance Minister Amid Debt Crisis
In a newly released autobiography, named Ithaki, the former prime minister Alexis Tsipras does not hold back as he revisits the chaotic period of Greece's debt drama.
An Unconventional Choice
According to the ex-PM's recollections, Tsipras selected the unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis to be his finance minister largely because of the latter's global profile and his “extremely attractive” abilities as a speaker.
“He was, truthfully, more of a star and less of an economist,” stated the 51-year-old.
Clashing Priorities
The former leader claims how Varoufakis had a personal agenda that involved promoting his books as well as experimenting with his economic models on the nation instead of truly fighting for the country's financial survival.
Tsipras noted how those negotiations to stave off bankruptcy were “not just a way of achieving improved terms for the country. They were a test, a monumental chance to demonstrate the truth of his economic theories.”
High-Stakes Talks
Amid tense discussions, the country came perilously close to leaving the single currency area.
At stake was not only Greece's future and the severe austerity policies required in exchange for bailout funds by international creditors.
Unsuccessful Alternatives
Efforts to secure financing from other sources, including an urgent appeal to the Kremlin to purchase Greek bonds, were rejected.
Assisting the indebted country 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 Reversal
That summer, those harsh conditions were subjected to a popular referendum, an action that plunged the EU into a deeper crisis of identity.
Even though the referendum was carried decisively by voters who opposed the cuts, Tsipras was forced to ignore the result and agree to a rescue deal from creditors which turned out to be tougher.
Final Straw
Tsipras claimed how he began to doubt his finance minister quite early on.
“He was the face of the talks, the man who drew publicity, who graced the front pages of magazines the world over … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.”
After the minister outlined a contingency plan that included establishing a secondary currency and distributing vouchers to pensioners, the leader said he realised that it was the end questioning him: “Are you serious?”
Enduring Criticism
In the book, the author asserts that his former ally had proved himself to be “unsuitable for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate management.”
He further wrote that his confrontational approach left him increasingly isolated among peers, endangered the country, and assisted hardliners that were pushing for a Greek exit from the euro.
The account of history has provoked fury and stunned disbelief among certain groups, while the former minister has so far kept a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.