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In a recently unveiled memoir, called Ithaki, the ex- leader Alexis Tsipras does not hold back while he reflects on the turbulent era during Greece's economic turmoil.

A Controversial Appointment

According to Tsipras's recollections, Tsipras selected the unorthodox economist Yanis Varoufakis to be the treasury head primarily because of his global profile and his highly compelling skills as a speaker.

“In reality, he was, in reality, more like a celebrity rather than an economic expert,” stated Tsipras.

Clashing Priorities

Tsipras suggests how Varoufakis had a personal motives which included advancing his publications as well as testing out his game theories using the nation rather than genuinely advocating the country's financial survival.

Tsipras wrote how the discussions to stave off bankruptcy were “not just a method of achieving improved terms for Greece. They became an experiment, an historic opportunity to demonstrate the truth of his economic theories.”

High-Stakes Talks

During volatile discussions, Greece came dangerously close to leaving the single currency area.

At stake was both the country's future and those severe austerity measures demanded in return for bailout funds from foreign lenders.

Failed Alternatives

Efforts to find financing elsewhere, including an urgent plea to Russia to buy Greek government bonds, went unanswered.

Assisting Greece would be tantamount to throwing money in the trash-can, the Russian leader is reputed to have told his Greek counterpart in Moscow.

Public Vote and U-Turn

That summer, those harsh conditions were put to a popular referendum, an action which plunged the EU into deeper crisis of identity.

Although the vote was carried resoundingly by those against the cuts, Tsipras had little option but to reject its outcome and agree to a rescue deal from creditors that turned out to be even harsher.

Final Straw

Tsipras claimed that he began to doubt his finance minister relatively soon.

“He was the face of the talks, the man who attracted publicity, who graced the covers of publications globally … it seemed he was enjoying the spotlight.”

When the minister outlined a contingency plan that included establishing a secondary currency as well as issuing vouchers to retirees, Tsipras said he realised that it was the end and asked Varoufakis: “Can you be serious?”

Enduring Rebuke

Within the memoir, the author asserts that Varoufakis demonstrated himself to be “unsuitable for a deal demanding complex and delicate management.”

He further wrote how Varoufakis's aggressive approach made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, endangered the country, while assisted hardliners who were pushing for Grexit.

This account of events has been met with anger and stunned disbelief among certain groups, whereas Varoufakis has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.