Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze stated that his government will not allow opposition members, whom he called the “collective National Movement,” to insult police officers and judges. Speaking to journalists in Batumi, Kobakhidze emphasized that any offense against the state will be met with the strictest punishment.
“The newly proposed legislation is aimed at ensuring that no one in Georgia can spread or amplify hate and insult others. Astonishingly, certain European bureaucrats are concerned about this. They seem to support hate and insults, which is completely unacceptable and has nothing to do with European values,” Kobakhidze said.
He stressed that the government will take all necessary measures to prevent the spread of hate speech in the country, asserting that “hate and insults must be kept to oneself.” He specifically targeted the opposition, stating that they would not be allowed to “disrespect police officers and judges,” and warned that any violations against state institutions would be dealt with severely.
Kobakhidze dismissed the influence of opposition groups, stating that “400 National Movement supporters cannot create problems for four million citizens.” He reiterated that the government is responsible for protecting the interests of the majority, not a ‘small radical faction.’
He also highlighted the recent expulsion of opposition members from parliament, noting that they had submitted their own resignations, which were officially accepted. “I don’t think they expected their resignations to be approved, but an important decision was made. There is no place for the National Movement in the Georgian parliament. I strongly hope that the remaining 12 members will also leave,” he concluded.
