**Georgian Politics in Turmoil: Former PM Accuses Patron of Interference**
The Georgian Dream (GD) party’s temporary parliamentary investigative commission heard testimony from former Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia on April 14, revealing a web of intrigue and interference that led to his resignation. At the center of the controversy is Bidzina Ivanishvili, the billionaire patron of the GD party.
**Gakharia Speaks Out**
According to reports, Gakharia told commission members that he opposed the planned arrest of United National Movement (UNM) leader Nika Melia on February 23, 2021. However, his views were allegedly overruled by Ivanishvili, who pressured members of the GD’s political council to turn against him.
The alleged WhatsApp messages published by opposition TV channel Formula TV appear to support Gakharia’s claims. The leaked chats show then-Cabinet members Tea Tsulukiani and Sozar Subari agreeing with Gakharia that the police raid on the UNM headquarters would be a disproportionate action, likely leading to international condemnation.
**Ivanishvili Responds**
In a statement on social media, GD Parliament Chair Shalva Papuashvili attempted to dispel Gakharia’s allegations regarding Ivanishvili. He pointed out that a U.S. Embassy statement urging restraint and dialogue with Melia was released just half an hour before Gakharia announced his resignation.
However, this response has been met with skepticism by many, as the timing of the statement may be seen as suspiciously coinciding with Gakharia’s resignation. Furthermore, the GD party has long been critical of the U.S. Embassy’s involvement in Georgian politics.
**Foreign Influence?**
The commission also suggested that Gakharia may have been influenced by foreign diplomats, particularly then-U.S. Ambassador Kelly Degnan. However, Gakharia denied this, stating that it was Ivanishvili who pressured him to turn against his team and position.
This revelation raises questions about the extent of foreign influence in Georgian politics and whether external actors are manipulating domestic events for their own interests.
**A Divided Country**
The controversy surrounding Gakharia’s resignation has further polarized an already divided country. The GD party has faced criticism for its handling of opposition leaders, including Melia’s arrest, which was widely condemned by international bodies.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how this will impact the future of Georgian politics and whether any accountability will be taken for alleged wrongdoings within the ruling party.
In a statement on April 15, Gakharia emphasized that “the invisible hand” of Ivanishvili continued to manipulate events from behind the scenes. As the investigation continues, it is clear that this will be a long and tumultuous process for the country.