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In a recently unveiled memoir, titled Ithaki, the ex- premier Alexis Tsipras pulls no punches while he reflects on the chaotic era of Greece's economic turmoil.

A Controversial Appointment

In the ex-PM's recollections, Tsipras appointed that unorthodox academic Yanis Varoufakis as the finance minister mainly because of his global profile along with Varoufakis's highly compelling skills when it came to public orator.

“He was, truthfully, more like a celebrity and less of an economist,” stated the 51-year-old.

Conflicting Agendas

The former leader alleges how his finance chief possessed a personal agenda which involved advancing Varoufakis's publications as well as testing out his own economic models on Greece instead of truly fighting for the country's financial survival.

Tsipras explained that those discussions to prevent insolvency were “not only a way of achieving a better deal for the country. They were a test, a monumental opportunity to prove the truth of his ideas.”

Critical Negotiations

During volatile discussions, Greece found itself dangerously close to leaving the eurozone.

At stake was not only Greece's destiny but also the severe austerity measures demanded in return for financial aid by international creditors.

Unsuccessful Alternatives

Efforts to secure financing elsewhere, including an urgent plea to Russia to purchase Greek bonds, fell on stony ground.

Helping Greece was equivalent to throwing money into the garbage, Putin is reputed to have informed his Greek counterpart during their meeting.

Public Vote and Reversal

That summer, those punitive bailout terms were subjected to a popular referendum, a move which plunged Europe into a deeper existential crisis.

Even though the referendum was won resoundingly by voters against austerity, the prime minister had little option to reject its outcome and agree to a rescue deal with creditors which proved to be tougher.

Final Straw

Tsipras revealed that he began to doubt Varoufakis quite early on.

“Varoufakis was the face of negotiation, the figure who drew publicity, who appeared on the covers of magazines the world over … it seemed he relished the spotlight.”

After Varoufakis outlined a contingency plan involving establishing a secondary currency and distributing vouchers to pensioners, the leader said he realised it was game over questioning him: “Can you be serious?”

Enduring Criticism

Within the memoir, the author asserts how Varoufakis demonstrated himself “unsuitable for an agreement demanding intricate and delicate management.”

Tsipras also wrote that his aggressive style left him increasingly isolated among peers, put Greece at risk, while helped hawks who were pushing for Grexit.

This account of events has provoked fury and shock among certain groups, whereas the former minister has so far maintained a conspicuous quiet regarding these claims.