**Georgian Prime Minister Defies Sanctions, Vows to Pay Embattled Official**
In a bold move that has left many wondering about the country’s stance on international sanctions, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has announced that he will continue to pay the salary of Sulkhan Tamazashvili, the Chairman of the Government of Adjara who was recently sanctioned by the European Union.
During a recent press conference, Kobakhidze was asked about how the sanctioned official would receive his pay. The Prime Minister’s response was straightforward and defiant: “Mr. Tamazashvili will receive his salary just fine. I’ll show you. He’ll receive it perfectly well, just as he has until now.”
Kobakhidze emphasized that Tamazashvili had been receiving his salary officially during his tenure as head of the city police, and that this would continue even after becoming Chairman of the Government of Adjara. “Your sanctions don’t work — that I can tell you,” Kobakhidze said, seemingly taunting the international community.
This move has sparked concerns about Georgia’s commitment to upholding international sanctions, particularly those imposed by the European Union. The EU‘s sanctions on Tamazashvili were reportedly issued due to his alleged involvement in human rights abuses and other wrongdoing.
**Commentary**
The Prime Minister’s decision to defy the EU’s sanctions and continue paying Tamazashvili’s salary raises serious questions about Georgia’s willingness to comply with international norms. By doing so, Kobakhidze has put the country at odds with its European partners, which could have far-reaching consequences for Georgia’s relations with the West.
**Analysis**
This move by the Georgian government also highlights a broader trend in the country’s approach to governance and accountability. The Prime Minister’s willingness to defy international sanctions suggests that he is more concerned with maintaining power and control within his own party than with upholding democratic norms and values.
Furthermore, this development may embolden other officials who have been accused of wrongdoing, potentially undermining efforts to hold them accountable for their actions. As such, the implications of Kobakhidze’s decision go far beyond the specific case of Tamazashvili and speak to a deeper problem with accountability in Georgian politics.
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