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In a freshly published autobiography, titled Ithaki, the ex- leader Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism as he reflects on that chaotic era of Greece's debt drama.

A Controversial Appointment

According to the ex-PM's version, Tsipras appointed that unorthodox academic Varoufakis to be his finance minister largely because of the latter's global profile and Varoufakis's very persuasive abilities as a speaker.

“He was, actually, more like a star and less of an economist,” recalled Tsipras.

Conflicting Priorities

Tsipras claims how Varoufakis had his own agenda which included advancing his publications and testing out his own game theories on the nation instead of genuinely fighting for the country's economic stability.

Tsipras noted how those negotiations to stave off insolvency were “not just a method of achieving a better deal for the country. They were a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the validity of Varoufakis's economic theories.”

Critical Talks

During rollercoaster negotiations, the country came dangerously close to exiting the single currency area.

On the line was both Greece's future but also the harsh austerity policies required in return for bailout funds from international creditors.

Failed Alternatives

Attempts to find funds elsewhere, including an urgent appeal to Russia to buy Greek government bonds, fell on stony ground.

Helping the indebted country was tantamount to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader is reputed to have told his Greek counterpart during their meeting.

Public Vote and Reversal

In July 2015, the harsh conditions were subjected to a public vote, an action that plunged the EU into further crisis of identity.

Even though the vote was won decisively by those against the cuts, Tsipras had little option to reject its outcome and agree to a rescue deal from creditors which turned out to be more severe.

Breaking Point

Tsipras claimed that he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.

“Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the man who attracted publicity, who graced the front pages of magazines globally … it seemed he relished the spotlight.”

After Varoufakis proposed a contingency plan involving establishing a parallel currency and issuing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras knew that it was game over questioning Varoufakis: “Are you serious?”

Enduring Criticism

Within the memoir, the author asserts how his former ally had proved himself to be “unfit for a deal demanding intricate and sensitive handling.”

Tsipras also claimed that his confrontational approach left him increasingly isolated with colleagues, endangered the country, and helped hawks who were pushing for Grexit.

This account of events has been met with fury along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has so far kept a deafening silence regarding these claims.