Georgian Parliament official: foreign patrons’ plans, not opposition claims, key to local elections

David Matikashvili, an MP from the ruling Georgian Dream party and Chair of the Georgian Parliament’s Committee on Procedural Issues and Rules, on Thursday said that the key factor in the upcoming local elections was not what radical opposition figures were claiming, but rather what plans their foreign patrons may have for Georgia.

In his remarks, Matikashvili suggested that some members of the opposition, particularly the radical wing, may publicly announce a boycott of the elections but could change their position based on external directives.

“As for the issue related to the [local] elections, it completely depends on the patrons of the agent-driven opposition, who give them specific tasks. Their personal opinions or so-called principled positions are irrelevant. What really matters is what instructions they receive from those who back them”, the MP said.

“The main thing is not what they think and what initiative a handful of radicals come up with in relation to the elections. It’s not about what they say or do; what’s important is that once again, during these elections, they will face yet another verdict from the Georgian people”, he continued.

He further emphasised that political status cannot shield anyone from legal responsibility.

“There is fully adequate criminal legislation in place for any individual who commits a crime. A political mantle cannot serve as an indulgence - no one should be exempt from facing the legal consequences of their actions”, he concluded.