UNM’s Dekanoidze: ‘let them sue, more people will learn about torture machinery’

Khatia Dekanoidze, Deputy Chair of the National Committee of the opposition United National Movement, on Monday responded to former Interior Minister Vakhtang Gomelauri’s recent comments on the BBC investigation into the alleged use of a banned chemical agent during last year’s protests, claiming Gomelauri was pressured by the ruling Georgian Dream party to speak out.

“Gomelauri was instructed by Georgian Dream to make some sort of comment because [the ruling party founder Bidzina] Ivanishvili is in hysterics,” she said, adding that the former minister’s remarks actually confirm the long-term presence of the chemical substance inside the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Dekanoidze said Gomelauri’s statement proves that “for 13 years, chemical compounds were stored in the Ministry,” despite Georgian Dream having been in power throughout that period.

She criticised the ruling party’s narrative, calling it illogical and suggesting it raises even more questions about accountability.

Dekanoidze also addressed Georgian Dream supporters directly:

“The main problem is that over 500 people have been tortured this year alone, detained and abused in isolation cells. Now they say they will sue us — fine, let them. Even more people will learn that a torture machinery existed. States will take an interest when they hear that women are being stripped and people tortured”, she sadi.

Gomelauri earlier responded to the BBC report by saying the chemical substance in question had indeed been purchased and used by the ministry — but only until 2012.