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In a newly released autobiography, called Ithaki, the ex- prime minister Tsipras spares no criticism as he examines that chaotic era of Greece's debt drama.

An Unconventional Appointment

In the ex-PM's version, he appointed the maverick economist Varoufakis as the treasury head largely due to the latter's global profile and Varoufakis's very persuasive abilities when it came to speaker.

“In reality, he was, truthfully, more of a star rather than an economist,” wrote Tsipras.

Conflicting Agendas

The former leader suggests how his finance chief had a personal agenda which involved promoting Varoufakis's publications as well as testing out his game theories using Greece instead of truly fighting for its economic stability.

Tsipras noted that the talks to prevent insolvency became “not only a way to secure improved terms for the country. They were an experiment, an historic chance to prove the truth of Varoufakis's economic theories.”

Critical Talks

Amid volatile discussions, Greece found itself dangerously on the brink of leaving the single currency area.

At stake lay not only Greece's destiny but also those severe cutbacks demanded in return for financial aid by international creditors.

Failed Alternatives

Efforts to secure funds elsewhere, such as a desperate plea to the Kremlin to purchase Greek bonds, fell on stony ground.

Assisting the indebted country was tantamount to tossing cash in the trash-can, the Russian leader reportedly told Tsipras in Moscow.

Public Vote Followed by Reversal

In July 2015, those punitive bailout terms were subjected to a public vote, an action which threw the EU into further existential crisis.

Even though the referendum was won resoundingly by those who opposed the cuts, Tsipras had little option but to ignore the result then agree to a bailout package with foreign lenders which proved to be tougher.

Breaking Point

Tsipras revealed how he began to doubt his finance minister relatively soon.

“Varoufakis was the face of negotiation, the man who attracted publicity, who appeared on the front pages of publications globally … he gave the impression he relished the spotlight.”

When Varoufakis proposed a contingency plan involving establishing a secondary currency as well as issuing vouchers to retirees, the leader said he realised it was game over questioning him: “Are you serious?”

Lasting Criticism

In the memoir, the author asserts how Varoufakis had proved himself to be “unfit for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate management.”

He also claimed how Varoufakis's confrontational approach made him increasingly isolated with colleagues, endangered the country, while assisted hawks that were advocating Grexit.

The retelling of history has been met with anger along with shock among certain groups, whereas the former minister has so far kept a deafening silence regarding these claims.