**New Police Chief Appointed in Adjara Amid Shakeup**
In a move that has sparked speculation, Grigol Beselia, the police chief of the Adjara Autonomous Republic, has resigned. He will be replaced by Giorgi Bukharishvili, who previously served as the director of the Samtskhe-Javakheti Police Department in 2023.
According to reports, Bukharishvili has a history with high-profile operations, including leading the special operation to arrest former President Mikheil Saakashvili on October 1, 2021. As part of his new role, he will oversee law enforcement activities in Adjara, but what remains unclear is what position Beselia will hold next as part of the rotation.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs attempted to downplay the significance of Beselia’s resignation, citing the rotation of department heads to improve efficiency. However, many observers see this move as part of a broader reshuffling within the ruling Georgian Dream party.
**Resignations and Shifts in Power**
This latest development follows hot on the heels of Tornike Rizhvadze announcing his resignation as head of the local government of Adjara earlier today. The Georgian Dream government has also reversed its decision to appoint State Security Service head Grigol Liluashvili as Minister of Regional Development.
Instead, Kakhaber Guledani will take on the role, with Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze making the announcement. This move comes amidst a period of significant change within the Georgian Dream government.
**Criticisms and Concerns**
Beselia’s resignation has also raised concerns about his involvement in the case of Mzia Amaghlobeli, director of the Batumelebi/Netgazeti publication. The Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) has called for criminal charges against Beselia and other officers involved, alleging unlawful detention.
This development highlights the ongoing tensions between law enforcement and civil society in Georgia. As the country continues to navigate its complex politics, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact the country’s trajectory.
**Commentary**
The sudden resignation of Grigol Beselia and the appointment of Giorgi Bukharishvili as his replacement raises more questions than answers. While the Ministry of Internal Affairs may see this move as a routine rotation, many observers believe it to be part of a broader power struggle within the Georgian Dream government.
As the country continues to grapple with its own internal conflicts and external pressures, one thing is clear: these developments will have far-reaching consequences for Georgia’s future.