Expert Chikhelidze: new head of State Security Service starts work ‘effectively’

The recent special operation carried out by the State Security Service of Georgia, which led to the arrest of the Deputy State Representative in Dusheti, Tianeti, Mtskheta and Kazbegi municipalities on charges of accepting a particularly large bribe, carries important symbolic weight, expert David Chikhelidze said on Friday in a social media post.

According to him, the case demonstrates that the new head of the State Security Service has begun work “effectively” and that the agency is not only formally but also genuinely fighting corruption.

“Corruption is the main obstacle to the country’s development. It halts economic growth, destroys the sense of justice in society, and undermines citizens’ trust in the state. Any official who uses their position for personal gain must understand that selective approaches will no longer exist. Neither political affiliation, nor high office, nor influential contacts will serve as protection,” Chikhelidze noted.

He added that strict state action against such crimes is not only a legal necessity but also a political message. Without immediate and precise responses to corruption cases, no reform, state strategy, or democratic process can succeed.

“For society, it is crucial to see that the law applies equally to all. Such actions build trust in state institutions and strengthen the democratic foundations of the country. With this message, the Government makes it clear: corruption will not be overlooked. It is a crime that will immediately be followed by strict punishment,” Chikhelidze stressed.