**Rizhvadze Resigns as Head of Adjara‘s Local Government**
In a sudden move, Tornike Rizhvadze stepped down as the Head of the local government in the Autonomous Republic of Adjara on April 4. His resignation came hours after he announced his departure from Facebook. Rizhvadze had been at the helm of the regional government since 2018.
**A Loyal Soldier Leaves Office**
Rizhvadze’s decision to leave office was met with a surprise nomination by President Mikheil Kavelashvili, who picked Sulkhan Tamazashvili as his replacement. However, what is noteworthy about this nomination is that Tamazashvili has been sanctioned by the UK for his work in law enforcement.
**A History of Controversy**
Rizhvadze’s tenure was marked by controversy and criticism from opposition politicians and activists. One such instance occurred in 2021 when allegations surfaced that his father had used two former law enforcement officials to bribe and pressure a member of the Batumi City Council. Protests erupted in both Tbilisi and Batumi, demanding his resignation.
**Failing to Deliver on Major Issues**
Rizhvadze’s inability to answer a journalist’s question about who started the war in Ukraine in 2022 was seen as another misstep. He also faced criticism for referring to the 2008 Russo-Georgian war as a “cowardly lost” during a presentation of the government’s progress report.
**The Way Forward**
The Supreme Council of Adjara will now hold consultations with President Kavelashvili to confirm Tamazashvili’s appointment. Chairman David Gabaidze stated that the meeting would take place as soon as possible, and that the new government would be approved if it received support from a majority of the council.
**What Does This Mean for Adjara?**
The replacement of Rizhvadze with Tamazashvili has raised concerns about the future direction of Adjara’s local government. While President Kavelashvili’s nomination may bring stability, it also raises questions about accountability and transparency in governance.
**Analysis**
Rizhvadze’s resignation comes at a time when the region is already facing numerous challenges, including economic difficulties and security concerns. The nomination of Tamazashvili has sparked debate among politicians and activists, with some calling for greater scrutiny into his past actions as a law enforcement officer.