Tbilisi mayor cites alleged video evidence of plot to incite unrest

The Mayor of Tbilisi, Kakha Kaladze, has commented on claims by former State Security Service chief and Vice prime ministerial candidate Mamuka Mdinaradze that a video recording exists involving Igor Blazevich, allegedly linked to plans to organise unrest in Georgia.

Kaladze on Thursday said this was not the first time that attempts had been made to destabilise the country.

“Unfortunately, this is not the first instance in which specific individuals have conducted training related to a coup or confrontation,” he said. “A few months ago, we heard a recording concerning the implementation of a revolutionary scenario.”

He claimed the material had been presented as support for parents of seriously ill children, but in reality involved discussions of violence.

Kaladze also said the public could see the involvement of “external actors”, adding that “Georgia is not being left in peace”. He urged caution and thanked relevant state agencies for their response.

He further stressed that coordinated and effective work by state institutions was essential to maintaining stability.

“There have been specific instances of criminal offences identified by law enforcement, which have caused public outrage,” he said, adding that an investigation is under way.

Kaladze noted that there were challenges in identifying those involved, but said the relevant bodies were responding appropriately.

“It is a matter of pride that the country remains peaceful,” he said. “It is also a matter of pride that today the country is experiencing double-digit economic growth. The effective work of every service is important for the country.”