Bidzina Ivanishvili, the leader of the ruling Georgian Dream party, recently suggested that Georgia should apologize to Ossetians for the 2008 war with Russia. He made this statement at a campaign event in Gori, claiming that the National Movement, led by former President Mikheil Saakashvili, was responsible for starting the conflict. Ivanishvili believes that Georgians should express regret for the suffering caused by the war.
The war in August 2008 resulted in Russia recognizing the breakaway regions of “South Ossetia” and Abkhazia as independent states after a five-day military engagement. However, most of the international community still considers these regions as part of Georgia. Ivanishvili described the Saakashvili administration as a “criminal regime” that was influenced by foreign powers. He promised that after the upcoming elections on October 26, those responsible for starting the war would be held accountable, and this would lead to a formal apology from the Georgian people.
Saakashvili is currently serving a six-year sentence for abuse of power. His United National Movement party condemned Ivanishvili’s remarks as shameful and treacherous, stating that they serve Russian interests. However, Girchi party MP Sandro Rakviashvili disagreed with Ivanishvili’s stance. He argued that the families of fallen soldiers and the Georgian population have nothing to apologize for, as they were the victims of Russian aggression. Rakviashvili emphasized that the focus should not be on apologies, but on the realities of the conflict. He urged voters to critically assess Ivanishvili’s statements and motives in the lead-up to the election.
The de-facto authorities in Sokhumi welcomed Ivanishvili’s statement, but only if it is supported by real actions. On the other hand, the occupation regime in Tskhinvali linked it to Georgia’s upcoming Parliamentary elections. It is clear that Ivanishvili’s statement has sparked controversy and divided opinions among the Georgian people. Some see it as a step towards reconciliation, while others view it as a betrayal of their country’s sovereignty. As the election approaches, it is important for voters to carefully consider the implications of Ivanishvili’s words and make an informed decision at the polls.
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