During a special briefing held at the Government Administration on January 29, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili officially stepped down. Citing the importance of internal inter-party democracy, Garibashvili emphasized the need to provide others with an opportunity. Additionally, he announced that he had accepted an offer to assume the role of Chair of the Georgian Dream party.

"I received an offer from the political council to take the position of party chairman, and in this regard, the congress will be held on February 1," Garibashvili stated. He further explained that although there were discussions within the political council about him staying until the summer before the start of the election campaign, he decided to make the decision now to ensure a smooth transition for the next prime minister.

Garibashvili elucidated the reasons behind his resignation, emphasizing the importance of internal democracy within the Georgian Dream party. He expressed the necessity of providing opportunities to other successful leaders within the team. He outlined his pride in the achievements made during his tenure as prime minister.

"I hope that now I will have more time to devote to my family," Garibashvili added, reflecting on his priorities. He extended his gratitude to Bidzina Ivanishvili, state structures, civil servants, and his family for their support during his time as Prime Minister. Garibashvili concluded by expressing his honor and responsibility to continue working within the party and contributing to the country's development and election process.

Mamuka Mdinaradze, the Executive Secretary of Georgian Dream, confirmed that the candidacy of Irakli Kobakhidze is under consideration for the post of Prime Minister. He stated, "Regarding the position of the Prime Minister, information regarding Irakli Kobakhidze was spread today. Of course, his candidacy will be considered, I will confirm this to you, but I must say, it will be a responsible proposal. Mr. Irakli [Garibashvili] deliberately did not mention the name of Irakli Kobakhidze, because this formality is to be protected in real aspect, in real life. This is the rule according to which the honorary chairman of the party submits a candidacy to the political council for approval, and after that, he becomes a candidate. After that, he has already been submitted to the Parliament with the signature of the party's chairman."

Mdinaradze stated that he lacks any information indicating that the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Health intend to resign. He clarified, "I am not aware of any such plans involving the ministers you mentioned. Additionally, I mentioned earlier that the potential candidacy of Irakli Kobakhidze is under consideration. However, it would be premature to discuss this matter extensively until the formal procedures are completed. We are still awaiting the congress and the session of the political council, during which the honorary chairman will officially propose a candidate according to the party's regulations."

"Until then, all discussions regarding specific candidates remain speculative. Once a prime ministerial candidate is presented to Parliament along with a government policy, they will be required to assemble their team. At present, all ministers are serving in acting capacities. Therefore, we cannot speculate on particular candidates until the individual nominated for the position of Prime Minister is confirmed," Mdinaradze clarified.

Giorgi Vashadze, the chairman of Strategy Builder, criticized Bidzina Ivanishvili's decision to replace Garibashvili with Kobakhidze, citing it as evidence of Ivanishvili's detachment from reality and the concerns of the people. Vashadze believes that Irakli Kobakhidze's appointment will hinder Georgia's integration into the European Union. Vashadze highlighted pressing issues such as unemployment, inflation, and mass emigration that are currently worrying the Georgian populace. He criticized the choice of Kobakhidze, whom he perceives as lacking an understanding of the economy and prioritizing personal interests over public welfare.

According to Vashadze, the solution lies in winning the 2024 elections and unifying efforts to attract investments from the United States and Europe. He emphasized the importance of creating sustainable, well-paying jobs and ultimately achieving full membership in the European Union. Vashadze expressed confidence in the power of unity to realize these goals.

Mamuka Khazaradze, the founder of Lelo, asserted that regardless of Bidzina Ivanishvili's choice for Prime Minister, the Georgian Dream's government aligned with Russian interests cannot be salvaged. Khazaradze emphasized that the Georgian Dream is aware of its dwindling time in power. He suggested that Irakli Garibashvili should be held accountable for corrupt practices rather than assuming the role of party chairman.

Khazaradze accused Bidzina Ivanishvili of orchestrating corruption, nepotism, and mismanagement both in the past and present. He asserted that the Georgian Dream is on borrowed time and claimed that societal demand for genuine change will lead to the dismissal of a government that prioritizes Russian interests. Khazaradze expressed confidence in Lelo's commitment to serving Georgia's best interests. He highlighted the countdown to victory, with 39 weeks remaining until the desired outcome.

Mikheil Saakashvili, the third president of Georgia, took to social media to denounce the appointment of Kobakhidze as another instance of mockery directed at the Georgian people by the oligarch. According to Saakashvili, the carousel of chairs around the table does not change anything at all for an ordinary Georgian. He believes the appointment of Kobakhidze is another act of mocking the Georgian people by the oligarch.

Saakashvili asserts that despite the leadership changes, the plight of ordinary Georgians remains unchanged. Mothers will continue to struggle to provide for their children, students will face challenges in securing employment in their chosen fields, and the only joy for grandparents will come from international calls from their children and grandchildren living abroad. He accuses the ruling "gang" of being solely concerned with further enriching Bidzina and consolidating their power. According to Saakashvili, they show no regard for the fate of the people.