**Georgian Politics in Turmoil: Protesters Demand Justice for War Hero**
In a shocking statement, Tea Tsulukiani, the chair of Georgia‘s temporary parliamentary commission investigating the former UNM government’s alleged crimes, sparked public outrage by claiming that Giorgi Antsukhelidze, a Georgian soldier who was tortured and killed in the 2008 war, was “senselessly” sacrificed for then-President Mikheil Saakashvili‘s PR campaign.
Tsulukiani’s comments were met with fierce protests from civic activists, youth, military experts, and veterans of the 2008 war. Demonstrators gathered at the rear entrance of the Parliament building, holding signs with the slogan “Antsukhelidze is Immortal.” This protest coincided with the 136th consecutive day of anti-regime demonstrations.
**PM Kobakhidze Defends Tsulukiani’s Remarks**
In response to the public outcry, Georgian Dream Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze defended Tsulukiani’s comments, stating that they were “clear” and that it was possible to have prevented the 2008 war. He emphasized that the death of Georgian soldiers could have been avoided, thereby preserving their lives for their families.
However, many Georgians see this as an attempt by the ruling party to shift the blame and downplay the sacrifices made by those who fought in the war. The statement has sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for justice for Antsukhelidze and others who were killed or injured during the conflict.
**Press Freedom Under Threat**
In another disturbing development, Reporters Without Borders (RSF), a Paris-based press freedom watchdog, condemned the denial of entry into Georgia for freelance photographer Jérôme Chobeaux and journalist Clément Girardot. The watchdog called on the EU and France to “exert pressure on the Georgian government.”
This move is seen as an attempt by the government to silence independent journalists and restrict press freedom in the country.
**Corruption Watchdog Exposes Ruling Party’s Abuse of Power**
The study conducted by a corruption watchdog found that the ruling Georgian Dream party has been using its power to manipulate the justice system and suppress opposition. The report is based on 14 volumes of case materials provided by the defendants’ legal representatives.
This latest revelation adds to the growing list of allegations against the ruling party, which has faced criticism for its handling of corruption cases, suppression of free speech, and attempts to undermine the country’s democratic institutions.
**Government Officials Attend International Forums**
In a bid to improve Georgia’s international image, Prime Minister Kobakhidze attended the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, where he met with several leaders, including Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. During the panel discussion, Kobakhidze highlighted that Georgia maintains economic relations with Russia and is committed to a “peaceful and pragmatic vision.”
Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili also attended the Delphi Economic Forum in Greece, where she emphasized the significance of free trade agreements signed by Georgia.
**Defense Ministry Embroiled in Controversy**
The Defense Ministry has been embroiled in controversy after it emerged that Defense Minister Irakli Chikovani attended the 27th meeting of the Ramstein Group. This move has sparked allegations that the government is using its power to further the interests of defense contractors and secure lucrative deals.
As tensions continue to rise, many Georgians are demanding justice for Antsukhelidze and others who were killed or injured during the war. The country’s fragile democracy hangs in the balance as the ruling party faces increasing criticism for its handling of corruption cases and suppression of free speech.