**New Appointments at Georgian State Security Service Spark Interest**
The head of the State Security Service, Anri Okhanashvili, has named three new deputies to assist him in his duties. The appointments have been made just days after Okhanashvili took over the position from Grigol Liluashvili.
**Meet the New Deputy Chiefs**
One of the new deputy chiefs is Irakli Beraia, who previously served as head of the Georgian Intelligence Service since April 5, 2024. A long-serving member of the ruling Georgian Dream party, Beraia has been a parliamentarian since 2016 and held various senior positions in the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
Beraia was at the center of controversy last year after verbally attacking opposition MP Teona Akubardia during a parliamentary session. His remarks were widely condemned, but it remains to be seen how his past actions will impact his new role as deputy chief.
Another appointee is Gela Geladze, who has served as Deputy Minister of Education and Science since 2023. He has also worked in the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the National Probation Agency. Before joining the government, Geladze was an associate professor at Tbilisi State University.
Levan Kharanauli, the third appointee, previously served under Okhanashvili at the Ministry of Justice as Deputy Minister. He is also a doctorate in law and an associate professor at Tbilisi State University Faculty of Law.
**Significance of the Appointments**
The new appointments come just days after Okhanashvili took over the position from Grigol Liluashvili, who had served as head of the State Security Service since 2019. The change in leadership has sparked interest in the government and opposition alike.
While the appointees bring different backgrounds and experiences to their new roles, their past actions and affiliations will likely be scrutinized by observers. It remains to be seen how these new deputy chiefs will work together with Okhanashvili to address the challenges facing Georgia‘s State Security Service.
**What’s Next?**
The appointments are a significant development in the Georgian government‘s security apparatus. As the country continues to navigate its relationships with NATO and other international partners, the roles of these new appointees will likely be closely watched by observers.
Only time will tell how these new deputy chiefs will contribute to the State Security Service’s efforts to ensure Georgia’s national security and counter threats from within and outside the country.
Read More @ civil.ge