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In a recently unveiled autobiography, titled Ithaki, the ex- premier Alexis Tsipras spares no criticism as he examines the chaotic era during Greece's debt drama.

A Controversial Choice

According to Tsipras's version, he appointed the maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis to be the finance minister mainly because of the latter's international reputation and Varoufakis's very persuasive skills when it came to public orator.

“In reality, he was, in reality, more of a celebrity and less of an economic expert,” stated Tsipras.

Clashing Priorities

Tsipras alleges that Varoufakis possessed his own motives that included promoting Varoufakis's publications as well as experimenting with his own game theories on the nation rather than truly advocating its economic stability.

He wrote how the discussions to avoid insolvency became “not only a method to secure a better deal for Greece. They were a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the truth of Varoufakis's ideas.”

High-Stakes Negotiations

Amid volatile discussions, the country found itself dangerously on the brink of leaving the eurozone.

On the line was not only Greece's destiny and the punishing austerity measures demanded in return for bailout funds by foreign lenders.

Failed Alternatives

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

Helping Greece would be tantamount to throwing money into the garbage, Putin is reputed to have informed his Greek counterpart in Moscow.

Referendum and Reversal

In July 2015, those excoriating bailout terms were subjected to a public vote, an action which plunged Europe into a deeper existential crisis.

Even though the referendum was won decisively by those against the cuts, the prime minister was forced but to ignore the result and negotiate a rescue deal with foreign lenders that proved to be even harsher.

Breaking Point

The ex-PM claimed how he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon.

“Varoufakis was the public image of the talks, the figure who drew publicity, who appeared on the front pages of magazines the world over … he gave the impression he was enjoying his new role.”

After the minister proposed a contingency plan involving establishing a parallel currency as well as issuing coupons to retirees, the leader knew that it was the end questioning Varoufakis: “Can you be serious?”

Lasting Criticism

In the book, the author concludes that his former ally demonstrated himself “unsuitable for an agreement demanding complex and sensitive management.”

Tsipras further claimed how Varoufakis's confrontational style left him increasingly isolated with colleagues, put Greece at risk, while assisted hawks that were advocating a Greek exit from the euro.

The account of history has been met with anger along with stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has so far kept a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.