Opposition alleges corruption in delayed Varketili Metro rehabilitation

The United National Movement (UNM) has accused Tbilisi’s municipal leadership and the ruling Georgian Dream party of corruption and mismanagement in connection with the long-delayed rehabilitation of the Varketili metro station.

Speaking at a press briefing, Lasha Parulava, a member of UNM’s political council, claimed that the failure to complete the project over an eight-year period reflects deep-rooted corrupt practices within the city government.

“The rehabilitation of the Varketili metro is a classic example of corruption, indifference, and municipal negligence,” Parulava said. “For eight years, the municipal leadership of Georgian Dream has failed to carry out the project, which has been dictated by corrupt interests.”

He specifically named Bada Construction, the company contracted for the rehabilitation works, alleging that it had close ties to government officials and has benefited from favoritism.

“Bada Construction is a favourite of the Ivanishvili regime. The rehabilitation has not only failed to be completed - it hasn’t even been properly started,” he added.

Parulava also criticized Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze and other senior officials, calling for legal accountability and an investigation by the Prosecutor’s Office. He accused the authorities of shielding those involved.

“There should be concrete questions directed at Kakha Kaladze and high-ranking officials. But no investigation is being conducted. This inaction must end,” he said.

The opposition figure promised that a future change in government would bring accountability.