Georgian PM warns Zourabichvili must choose- Leave Presidential residence or face prison

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze addressed the media on December 22, delivering sharp criticism of Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili. Speaking at a press conference, Kobakhidze accused the President of turning the presidential residence into a “pavilion” and suggested that she may face imprisonment after her term ends on December 29.

“If she fortifies herself in the presidential residence, it will constitute a criminal offense. Sending a 72-year-old woman to jail may be unappealing to some, but such actions would also endanger anyone supporting her,” Kobakhidze said. He added, “We’ll see where she ends up living — behind bars or outside. I believe she will have the wisdom not to violate the Criminal Code.”

Kobakhidze dismissed concerns that Zourabichvili could achieve anything significant in her final days in office.

“Some European politicians and officials claim a lot could happen before December 29, but I assure you, nothing significant will happen. The deep state will not prevail in Georgia, nor will the radical opposition. On the 29th, she will be required to leave office,” Kobakhidze stated.

The Prime Minister further mocked Zourabichvili’s leadership, comparing her use of the presidential residence to a makeshift meeting spot.

“The most regrettable part is that she has degraded the presidential palace into such a space,” Kobakhidze remarked.