Georgian Dream MP dismisses opposition video linking party members to Saakashvili era

Tengiz Sharmanashvili has rejected criticism from the opposition party For Georgia over a video showing members of the ruling Georgian Dream who previously held positions during the presidency of Mikheil Saakashvili.

In a social media statement, Sharmanashvili argued that ambassadors hold politically neutral positions and are prohibited from engaging in political activity or expressing party preferences.

Responding to criticism regarding a photograph of Saakashvili displayed in his office while serving abroad, the lawmaker said the image had already been present when he arrived and reflected standard diplomatic protocol.

“The photograph of Saakashvili was already in the office when I arrived,” Sharmanashvili wrote. “A portrait of the head of state was displayed in the office of every Georgian ambassador around the world. This standard was determined by the ministry. I could neither hang it nor remove it.”

He added that only an “uneducated person” would interpret the presence of a state leader’s portrait in an ambassador’s office as evidence of party membership.

Sharmanashvili said he had repeatedly explained the issue but claimed his critics continued to ignore the distinction between diplomatic protocol and political affiliation.