Georgian PM emphasises importance of investigating former UNM Gov't's crimes, preventing recurrence

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Saturday emphasised the critical importance of reminding society about crimes committed by the former United National Movement regime.

In his remarks, Kobakhidze highlighted that revisiting the crimes committed under the Saakashvili Government was not only about recalling past events, but also about preventing similar violations from occurring in the future.

“Generally, people tend to forget things over time, especially on an emotional level. Emotionally, to some extent, we’ve all forgotten the crimes committed by the former regime. That’s why it is extremely important to remind the public of these past crimes. And it’s not just about remembering – it’s primarily important for the prevention of similar crimes”, the PM said.

Kobakhidze claimed that external actors, including the so-called deep state and certain European bureaucrats, had for years attempted to bring back this political force, which he described as responsible for violence, repression, and corruption.

“When there are efforts from outside to impose the return of such a political force - and these efforts have been ongoing for years - the public must evaluate this. The public must understand why certain forces, the so-called deep state, through European bureaucrats, are trying to bring back a political force that was notorious for murdering, torturing people, surrendering territories, and extorting businesses”, he said.

He further emphasised that the investigative commission's process was vital for the public to make informed judgments about these past actions and prevent their recurrence.