🔗 Share this article Ex-PM Tsipras States Varoufakis Was ‘Unfit’ as Greece's Treasury Chief During Debt Crisis In a freshly published personal account, named Ithaki, the ex- leader Tsipras does not hold back while he examines that chaotic period during Greece's debt drama. An Unconventional Choice According to the ex-PM's version, he chose the unorthodox economist Varoufakis as his finance minister largely because of the latter's global profile along with his very persuasive abilities when it came to public orator. “In reality, he was, in reality, more of a star rather than an economist,” stated the 51-year-old. Clashing Priorities Tsipras suggests how his finance chief possessed a personal agenda that included advancing Varoufakis's books as well as experimenting with his own theories on Greece rather than truly fighting for its financial survival. Tsipras noted that those negotiations to prevent insolvency became “not just a way to secure improved terms for the country. They were a test, a monumental opportunity to demonstrate the truth of his economic theories.” Critical Talks During tense discussions, Greece came dangerously close to leaving the single currency area. On the line was not only the country's future and those harsh cutbacks demanded in return for financial aid from international creditors. Unsuccessful Alternatives Attempts to secure funds from other sources, such as a desperate plea to the Kremlin to buy Greek government bonds, went unanswered. Assisting the indebted country was equivalent to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly told his Greek counterpart during their meeting. Referendum Followed by Reversal In July 2015, the excoriating conditions were put to a public vote, a move which plunged Europe into further crisis of identity. Even though the vote was carried decisively by those who opposed austerity, the prime minister was forced to ignore the result then agree to a bailout package from creditors that proved to be more severe. Final Straw The ex-PM claimed that he started questioning Varoufakis relatively soon. “Varoufakis was the face of the talks, the man who drew media attention, who graced the front pages of publications the world over … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.” After the minister proposed a contingency plan involving creating a secondary currency as well as distributing coupons to retirees, the leader knew it was game over questioning Varoufakis: “Is this for real?” Enduring Criticism In the memoir, the author concludes that Varoufakis demonstrated himself to be “unfit for a deal that required intricate and sensitive handling.” He also claimed that his confrontational style left him more and more alone with colleagues, put Greece at risk, while assisted hardliners that were pushing for Grexit. This account of events has been met with fury and stunned disbelief in some quarters, while the former minister has kept a deafening silence on the matter.