Georgian PM says investigation into UNM regime crimes “vital” for country’s future

Irakli Kobakhidze
Photo: Administration of the Georgian Government
Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Friday highlighted the importance of investigating crimes committed during the governance of the United National Movement regime, stating that the objective was not merely to correctly assess the past, but to shield the country from similar threats in the future.
In his remarks over the matter, Kobakhidze detailed a series of abuses attributed to the imprisoned former President Mikheil Saakashvili administration, highlighting their lasting impact on the domestic public.
“I can remind you of these crimes: around 150 people, primarily young individuals, were killed in the streets. Regarding the torture and inhumane treatment of prisoners, often including sexual violence, these crimes were established by the European Court of Human Rights, which confirmed the systemic nature of torture during Saakashvili’s rule. This is yet another crime. There are many facts of business racketeering, many people were involved in business racketeering, who today represent various opposition parties”, the PM said.
The Government head further argued that the thorough investigation into these crimes was essential to ensure that such systemic abuses and threats to Georgia’s sovereignty would not recur.
“Election fraud was widespread, including the total falsification of the 2008 presidential elections. The primary crime, however, was the 2008 war [with Russia]. They have admitted to starting this war, as evidenced by their signature on a Council of Europe resolution. This is a sufficient list of crimes that underscores the necessity of a thorough investigation. This investigation is not about correctly evaluating the past, but is crucial for protecting our country from similar threats in the future”, Kobakhidze concluded.
Mamuka Mdinaradze, the Executive Secretary of the ruling Georgian Dream party, last week said a temporary investigative commission would be established in the Georgian Parliament to investigate activities of the former United National Movement “regime” and its officials between 2003 and 2012.
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