**New Head Appointed at Georgian Finance Ministry’s Investigative Service**
Irakli Beraia, a 48-year-old Georgian politician, has been appointed as the head of the Investigative Service of the Ministry of Finance. This decision was made by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze through a decree issued on April 2.
**A Look at Beraia’s Background**
Beraia comes from a banking background, having worked at Cartu Bank from 2004 to 2016. During his time there, he held various positions, including director of the centralized administration department. He then entered politics in 2016 as a majoritarian MP for the Georgian Dream party. Beraia went on to serve in the 10th convocation Parliament and later joined the People’s Power Party, an anti-Western pseudo-opposition party.
**A Career Marked by Controversy**
Beraia’s career has not been without controversy. In 2022, he joined the People’s Power Party, which was formed by former Georgian Dream MPs. The party has been known for its opposition to Western influence and has pushed for laws that restrict media access to court hearings and target NGOs. Beraia also served in the contested 2024 Parliament until his term was terminated in February 2025.
**Commentary**
The appointment of Irakli Beraia as head of the Investigative Service raises questions about the Georgian government’s commitment to transparency and accountability. As a politician with ties to the ruling party, some may see this move as an attempt to exert control over the investigative process. However, it is also worth noting that Beraia brings a wealth of experience in governance and law enforcement to his new role.
**Deeper Analysis**
The appointment of Irakli Beraia highlights the complexities of Georgian politics. The country’s ruling party, Georgian Dream, has been criticized for its handling of opposition parties and NGOs. The appointment of Beraia, who has ties to these groups, could be seen as an attempt to co-opt or neutralize potential critics. However, it is also possible that Beraia’s experience in governance and law enforcement could bring a new perspective to the Investigative Service.
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