Georgian Dream Party Faces Speculation Over Leadership Roles
On January 29, "Imedi" TV, the Georgian Dream-affiliated media agency, indicated an imminent exchange of roles between Georgian Dream party chief Irakli Kobakhidze and Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili soon. According to "Imedi TV's" report, Georgian Dream is poised to rearrange its Cabinet of Ministers based on insider insights.
Following these adjustments, Kobakhidze is to take up the post of political secretary. Allegedly, these modifications gained approval during the Political Council's gathering on January 24.
However, Shalva Papuashvili, the Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia, dismissed the speculations suggesting that Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili may step down from his position in the coming days. According to Papuashvili, such rumors have surfaced numerous times, and he refrained from commenting on speculative information. He emphasized, "I cannot comment on speculations."
Responding to inquiries about Bidzina Ivanishvili's recent activity and communication with party leaders, Papuashvili expressed his disinterest in the matter. He highlighted that Ivanishvili's return to politics aimed to actively engage in party affairs and Georgia's political landscape. Papuashvili reiterated, "Bidzina Ivanishvili returned to politics to be actively involved in party activities and the political life of Georgia."
Nika Oboladze, a member of the political council of the United National Movement party, expressed concerns about potential government changes in Ivanishvili's “corrupt oligarchic system”. He suggested that Irakli Kobakhidze's advancement within this hierarchy would lead to increased corruption while Irakli Garibashvili would continue benefiting from what had already been stolen.
Oboladze criticized Garibashvili for allegedly benefiting from significant amounts of stolen funds, citing examples such as sending his son to study with an expensive charter and the alleged profiteering of the "Kaladze clan." He highlighted the disparity between certain individuals' privileged treatment and the struggles ordinary citizens face, including students who cannot afford transportation or accommodation expenses.
According to Oboladze, Garibashvili's actions reflect a broader pattern of enriching individuals at the expense of robbing the people. He called for an end to this practice through the 2024 elections and advocated for a new government focused on serving the people and attracting investments to create high-paying jobs. Oboladze emphasized the need to break free from the corrupt hierarchy orchestrated by Ivanishvili and redistribute roles to ensure accountability and transparency in governance.
Notably, in light of Bidzina Ivanishvili's return, the selection of the next Prime Minister falls under his purview as the Honorary Chairman, per recent revisions to the statute of the ruling Georgian Dream party. Georgian Dream has declared its intention to convene a Party Congress on February 1.