Ruling party leader accuses critics of campaign against honorary chair Ivanishvili

Irakli Kirtskhalia from the ruling Georgian Dream party has accused domestic and foreign actors of attempting to discredit the party founder and honorary chair Bidzina Ivanishvili through what he described as a coordinated campaign.

Speaking in parliament on Tuesday, he said critics were focusing on what he called a “sensitive issue” in an effort to damage Ivanishvili’s reputation, particularly in relation to his charitable activities.

Kirtskhalia also linked the alleged campaign to broader political tensions following Georgia’s decision not to open a “second front” after the start of the war in Ukraine. He said the country had instead prioritised maintaining sovereignty and stability amid a challenging regional environment.

He also alleged that external actors, including European officials, had contributed to pressure on Georgia in connection with its bid to join the European Union. He specifically criticised the EU’s ambassador to Georgia, Pavel Herczynski, accusing him of political interference.

Kirtskhalia further claimed that attempts to undermine the government and Ivanishvili had included efforts to provoke unrest and damage public trust.