Saakashvili Eyes Chairmanship of UNM's Political Committee Amidst Georgia's Electoral Prep

| News, Politics, Georgia

On February 9, at the "Vivamedi" clinic, Mikheil Saakashvili, Georgia's former president, articulated his vision for the political landscape, revealing plans to helm the political activity committee of the "National Movement" as the nation gears up for pivotal parliamentary elections. 

"I intend to head the 'National Movement' political activity committee, so to speak, the board, to be the chairman of this board if the ordinary members of the party support it," Saakashvili asserted, emphasizing his willingness to be at the forefront of the political struggle. He highlighted the significance of these elections, framing them as determinants of Georgia's existential path. "This board will include party leaders but also many socially active figures," he added, signifying a broad-based approach to political engagement.

During the court proceedings, Saakashvili further delineated his involvement in the election campaign, aligning himself with the "National Movement - Victory Platform." Speaking from the clinic, he affirmed his allegiance to Ukraine while staking his claim as a torchbearer for Georgian interests. "Today is the first time that I am directly involved in the campaign. I directly accept myself as a representative of the 'National Movement - Victory Platform,'" Saakashvili declared, positioning himself as a symbol of opposition to the status quo.

Amidst impassioned rhetoric, Saakashvili expressed concerns about the current state of Georgian politics, advocating for a departure from oligarchic influence and a recommitment to European values. He urged a concerted effort to safeguard Georgia's sovereignty and pursue integration into European structures. "Georgia should be without the influence of oligarchs. Of course, Georgia should be in Europe," he emphasized, echoing sentiments of democratic renewal and national resilience.

In addressing President Zourabichvili's initiatives, Saakashvili refrained from offering prescriptive advice but instead proposed a grassroots mobilization strategy. "If the president takes this initiative, we will support her," he remarked, urging leaders to engage directly with citizens through mass demonstrations. His critique of the existing political landscape resonated with themes of democratic deficit and the imperative for substantive change.

In response to Mikheil Saakashvili's recent statements, Vice-Speaker Archil Talakvadze declared,  "Everyone who is not in prison has the right to walk on Rustaveli!" Talakvadze addressed reporters, highlighting the potential for Saakashvili to lead the United Front of the collective radical opposition.

Talakvadze criticized Saakashvili's call to action, stating that filling Rustaveli is a precursor to destabilization. He cautioned that Saakashvili's rhetoric may escalate to inciting attacks on state institutions. Talakvadze underscored the inconsistency of Saakashvili's positions, noting his fluctuating statements about his political involvement and leadership roles. He criticized Saakashvili for attempting to regain influence through media attention and emphasized the potential external support behind Saakashvili's resurgence in Georgian politics.

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze remarked, "This is an open alliance between the National Movement and Salome Zourabichvili." He interpreted Zourabichvili's remarks as an indication of an impending collaboration between her faction and the United National Movement. However, Saakashvili dismissed their chances of success, highlighting the lack of resources for such a move.

Prime Minister Kobakhidze echoed Saakashvili's sentiments, emphasizing the futility of attempts to transfer political processes to the streets. He asserted the government's commitment to maintaining stability and ensuring the country progresses without deviation from its established course. Regarding Saakashvili's new role within the National Movement, Kobakhidze dismissed its significance, asserting that internal party decisions would not enhance their political resources.

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