PM: “Gakharia initiated violent confrontation and it did not go unanswered”

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze commented on the recent altercation involving former Prime Minister and opposition leader Giorgi Gakharia, stating that Gakharia initiated the confrontation, which provoked a reaction. Kobakhidze described the incident as a “natural but unfortunate occurrence.”

“Much is said about the duty of tolerance when it comes to politicians. I have my own views on this, but if you are a ‘Natsi’ [a derogatory term for members of the opposition] or a spy, then you absolutely have a duty to tolerate such accusations,” Kobakhidze told reporters.

He claimed that Gakharia failed to tolerate being exposed as such and reacted violently.

“When someone calls you out as a ‘Natsi’ or a spy, you must respond with tolerance. Gakharia couldn’t handle it and received a reaction. He initiated the violent confrontation, which, of course, did not go unanswered. This is a natural, though regrettable, event, but the response was understandable,” Kobakhidze stated.