Opposition figure criticises government’s interpretation of neutrality

Opposition politician Armaz Akhvlediani has criticised the ruling Georgian Dream party’s approach to what it described as political neutrality, arguing that it would move the country closer to Russia and weaken democratic institutions.

Speaking to journalists on Thursday, Akhvlediani said that the concept of neutrality promoted by the government differed from its traditional meaning and should not be compared to models such as Switzerland.

He claimed that, under the government’s interpretation, neutrality would place Georgia within Russia’s sphere of influence and lead to increased authoritarianism.

According to Akhvlediani, the ruling party’s goal was to undermine what he described as “normal statehood” in Georgia. He also accused the authorities of turning away from education, culture and social equality, and of promoting a system marked by inequality.