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In a newly released autobiography, titled Ithaki, the former leader Tsipras pulls no punches as he reflects on that chaotic period during Greece's financial crisis.

A Controversial Appointment

As per the ex-PM's account, Tsipras chose that maverick economist Varoufakis as his treasury head mainly because of his global profile and Varoufakis's very persuasive abilities when it came to communicator.

“In reality, he was, truthfully, more like a star rather than an economic expert,” wrote Tsipras.

Clashing Priorities

Tsipras claims how his finance chief had his own agenda that included promoting Varoufakis's publications as well as experimenting with his theories using the nation rather than genuinely fighting for the country's financial survival.

Tsipras noted how the discussions to prevent bankruptcy were “not only a way to secure a better deal for the country. They were a test, an historic chance to demonstrate the validity of Varoufakis's economic theories.”

Critical Talks

During tense discussions, Greece found itself dangerously on the brink of leaving the single currency area.

At stake was not only the country's future and the harsh austerity measures required in return for rescue loans by foreign lenders.

Unsuccessful Alternatives

Efforts to secure financing from other sources, such as a desperate appeal to Russia to buy Greek government bonds, went unanswered.

Assisting Greece was equivalent to throwing money in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly told Tsipras in Moscow.

Public Vote Followed by Reversal

In July 2015, those punitive conditions were subjected to a public vote, a move which threw the EU into a deeper crisis of identity.

Although the vote was won decisively by voters who opposed austerity, Tsipras had little option to reject its outcome then negotiate a rescue deal with creditors that proved to be more severe.

Final Straw

The ex-PM revealed how he began to doubt his finance minister quite early on.

“He was the face of negotiation, the figure who attracted media attention, who graced the covers of publications globally … he gave the impression he was enjoying the spotlight.”

After Varoufakis proposed a contingency plan that included creating a secondary currency as well as issuing vouchers to pensioners, Tsipras said he realised that it was game over questioning Varoufakis: “Is this for real?”

Lasting Criticism

In the memoir, Tsipras asserts how his former ally had proved himself “unsuitable for a deal that required intricate and sensitive handling.”

Tsipras also wrote that Varoufakis's aggressive style made him increasingly isolated among peers, put Greece at risk, and helped hardliners who were advocating Grexit.

This account of history has provoked anger along with shock among certain groups, whereas the former minister has maintained a deafening silence on the matter.