🔗 Share this article Former Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras Claims Varoufakis Was ‘Unfit’ as Greek Treasury Chief During Debt Crisis In a freshly published autobiography, named Ithaki, the former premier Alexis Tsipras does not hold back as he examines the turbulent era during Greece's economic turmoil. A Controversial Choice As per the ex-PM's version, he selected that maverick economist Yanis Varoufakis to be his treasury head largely due to the latter's international reputation along with Varoufakis's “extremely attractive” skills when it came to public orator. “In reality, he was, truthfully, more of a star and less of an economic expert,” wrote the 51-year-old. Conflicting Priorities Tsipras claims that Varoufakis possessed his own motives which included advancing his publications as well as experimenting with his economic models on the nation rather than truly fighting for the country's economic stability. Tsipras noted how the talks to avoid bankruptcy became “not only a method to secure improved terms for Greece. They became a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the validity of Varoufakis's theories.” High-Stakes Talks Amid rollercoaster negotiations, the country came dangerously on the brink of leaving the single currency area. On the line lay not only Greece's destiny but also those severe austerity measures demanded in return for rescue loans from foreign lenders. Unsuccessful Options Attempts to secure funds elsewhere, including a desperate appeal to Russia to purchase Greek bonds, were rejected. Helping the indebted country would be tantamount to throwing money in the trash-can, Putin reportedly told Tsipras in Moscow. Public Vote and Reversal In July 2015, those excoriating conditions were put to a popular referendum, a move that threw Europe into deeper crisis of identity. Even though the vote was won decisively by those against the cuts, Tsipras had little option to ignore the result then agree to a rescue deal with creditors that proved to be even harsher. Final Straw Tsipras claimed that he began to doubt Varoufakis relatively soon. “Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the figure who attracted media attention, who appeared on the front pages of magazines globally … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.” After Varoufakis proposed a backup strategy involving establishing a parallel currency and issuing coupons to retirees, Tsipras said he realised that it was game over questioning him: “Are you serious?” Lasting Criticism Within the book, the author concludes that Varoufakis had proved himself “unfit for an agreement that required complex and sensitive handling.” Tsipras further wrote how Varoufakis's aggressive style made him more and more alone with colleagues, put Greece at risk, and assisted hawks who were pushing for a Greek exit from the euro. This account of events has provoked anger and stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas the former minister has so far kept a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.