Former Prime Minister Tsipras Asserts Yanis Varoufakis Proved ‘Inappropriate’ for the role of Greek Treasury Chief Amid Debt Crisis

Within his freshly published autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- premier Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism as he reflects on that turbulent period of Greece's financial crisis.

An Unconventional Appointment

In the ex-PM's account, Tsipras chose that unorthodox economist Varoufakis as the treasury head largely because of his international reputation along with Varoufakis's “extremely attractive” skills when it came to communicator.

“He was, in reality, more like a star rather than an economist,” stated Tsipras.

Conflicting Agendas

The former leader claims that his finance chief had a personal agenda which involved advancing Varoufakis's publications and experimenting with his game theories using the nation rather than truly advocating the country's economic stability.

He wrote how the discussions to prevent bankruptcy became “not just a way of achieving improved terms for the country. They were a test, a monumental chance to prove the validity of Varoufakis's economic theories.”

Critical Talks

Amid rollercoaster negotiations, the country came perilously on the brink of exiting the eurozone.

On the line lay both Greece's destiny and those severe austerity policies demanded in return for bailout funds by foreign lenders.

Unsuccessful Alternatives

Efforts to secure funds elsewhere, such as a desperate plea to Russia to buy Greek bonds, were rejected.

Assisting the indebted country would be equivalent to throwing money in the trash-can, the Russian leader is reputed to have informed Tsipras during their meeting.

Public Vote Followed by Reversal

That summer, the punitive bailout terms were subjected to a popular referendum, an action which threw Europe into a deeper crisis of identity.

Although the vote was won decisively by voters against the cuts, Tsipras had little option but to reject its outcome then negotiate a rescue deal with creditors that turned out to be tougher.

Final Straw

Tsipras revealed that he started questioning Varoufakis quite early on.

“Varoufakis was the public image of negotiation, the man who drew media attention, who appeared on the covers of magazines globally … it seemed he relished the spotlight.”

When Varoufakis outlined a backup strategy involving establishing a secondary currency and issuing vouchers to pensioners, the leader said he realised it was the end and asked him: “Can you be serious?”

Lasting Rebuke

Within the book, the author asserts that his former ally demonstrated himself “unfit for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate management.”

Tsipras further claimed how Varoufakis's aggressive style left him increasingly isolated with colleagues, put Greece at risk, while assisted hawks who were advocating Grexit.

The account of history has been met with anger along with shock among certain groups, while Varoufakis has so far maintained a deafening silence on the matter.