Georgian Dream MP hails 14 years in power, party founder, citing peace, sovereignty

Georgian Dream lawmaker Archil Beridze has praised the party’s 14 years in power and its founder Bidzina Ivanishvili, describing the period as one of peace, stronger national sovereignty and improved social support.

Speaking during a parliamentary plenary session on Tuesday, Beridze said the political change led by Ivanishvili had ended the United National Movement’s rule and represented a choice in favour of human dignity, peace and an independent Georgia.

Beridze argued that Georgians now had greater freedom to express their views, criticise the government and plan their lives without fear. He contrasted the current situation with “abuses, intimidation, unlawful property transfers and violence in prisons” under the previous administration.

He also credited Georgian Dream with maintaining peace during Russia’s war against Ukraine and other regional crises, saying decisions about Georgia’s future were now made in the country in line with the interests of its people.

The MP said the government had pursued an “uncompromising approach” to corruption and crime, including cases involving members of its own political team. He also highlighted support for pensioners and internally displaced families as key priorities.

Beridze praised Ivanishvili and his Cartu Foundation for their contribution to “preserving Georgia’s cultural heritage.”

He highlighted the restoration of churches, theatres and museums, as well as efforts to preserve the historic Leuville estate in France and return the medieval manuscript of John Zosimus to Georgia.

“I came into politics from the arts, so caring for culture is particularly important to me,” Beridze said.