Leaked audio: Bacho Akhalaia, architect of repressive machinery of former United National Movement regime, urges weapons for young people, speaks of violence and blood

Two audio recordings allegedly capturing a conversation between the Georgian opposition leader Paata Burchuladze and Bacho Akhalaia - the architect of the repressive machinery of the former United National Movement regime - have surfaced, generating significant public and political reaction in Georgia.

While the authenticity of the recordings has not been officially confirmed, their content contains statements encouraging violence and provocation.

In the first recording, Akhalaia allegedly says: “Smash their heads, create as much chaos as possible. Then whoever dies - ours, a police officer - I don’t care”.

In the second, he is purported to state: “Do you know how gladly I would give weapons to young people? There will be blood, and consider the process unstoppable”.

The recordings were sent to Imedi News via email approximately two hours before publication. Despite lacking official verification of their authenticity, the news outlet decided to release them due to widespread circulation to various media.

The revelations sparked strong reactions among politicians. Giorgi Volski, the First Vice-Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia, expressed no doubt about the recordings’ authenticity, suggesting the operation was premeditated and attributing its orchestration to Akhalaia.

The leaked material has intensified debate in Georgia’s political and public spheres, raising serious concerns about incitement to violence and the possible involvement of former regime actors in orchestrating provocative acts.