Georgia’s ruling party Sec Gen calls EPP’s sanctions demand example of double standards

Kakha Kaladze, the Mayor of Tbilisi and Secretary General of the ruling Georgian Dream party, on Thursday criticised the European People’s Party (EPP) for calling for sanctions, describing their actions as an example of “double standards”.

Kaladze’s response followed the European People's Party's calls on the European Union and its member states to impose targeted sanctions on Bidzina Ivanishvili and his enablers complicit in undermining democracy, human rights and the rule of law in Georgia.

In his remarks, Kaladze noted that the Georgian people clearly understand the motives and participants behind what he called a “two-faced game”.

“This is a clear example of double standards. These alliances, parties, and certain high-ranking officials are under the influence of the deep state. They are acting against the Georgian people and are resorting to disgraceful tactics to encourage crime, violence, and division within society. Most importantly, the Georgian people have thoroughly analyzed who is who and what interests different groups have regarding Georgia”, the Mayor said.

He also explained why, in his view, the EPP was targeting Bidzina Ivanishvili with sanctions.

“Mr. Bidzina Ivanishvili is a key figure in our country and enjoys great respect among the Georgian public. In 2012, he united the majority of the population and defeated the enemies of the country - the so-called global war party, represented both in Georgia and abroad. Through his strong character, he has shown how vital it is to defend the nation’s interests. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that today, the one they are fighting against is Bidzina Ivanishvili”, Kaladze concluded.