At a campaign rally in Gori, near the Russian occupation line, the leader of the ruling Georgian Dream party, Bidzina Ivanishvili, placed blame for the 2008 war on “external forces” and the previous Georgian government. He also stated that the Georgian people should apologize for their actions. However, he failed to mention Russia‘s responsibility for the ongoing military invasion and occupation. The official representatives of the Georgian Dream party have defended Ivanishvili’s remarks, while the opposition has strongly criticized them. Here are some reactions from within Georgia:
– Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze stated that Ivanishvili’s main message was about the development of the country, but also mentioned the serious crime committed by the previous regime in instigating the war. He also accused the opposition of wanting to start another war in order to regain power.
– Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili accused the opposition of using the names of Georgian heroes who fought in the war for their own political gain. He also criticized the non-governmental sector for declaring the Ossetian people as war criminals and for their lack of progress in resolving the conflict.
– Tbilisi Mayor and Georgian Dream Secretary General Kakha Kaladze dismissed the opposition’s criticism as “political speculation” and denied that Ivanishvili had said anything about apologizing to the occupiers. He also stated that the Georgian Dream party is working to unite the country.
It is clear that there are differing opinions within Georgia about Ivanishvili’s remarks and the government’s handling of the conflict with Russia. However, it is important to use simple language and avoid misleading the public with false information. The focus should be on finding a peaceful resolution and uniting the country, rather than engaging in political games.
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