“No position, current or former, can provide immunity from corruption or abuse of office,” says Georgian Dream parliamentary majority leader

No public office, whether currently or previously held, can provide immunity from accountability for corruption or abuse of power, Georgian parliamentary majority leader and Georgian Dream faction chairman Irakli Kirtskhalia said.

Speaking on the television programme Open Air, Kirtskhalia said allegations of corruption and abuse of office would not go unanswered, regardless of the position held by those involved.

According to Kirtskhalia, the prosecution and conviction of individuals associated with the ruling Georgian Dream party should be regarded as evidence of the party’s strength and accountability rather than political weakness.

“Many people question Georgian Dream, suggesting that such cases demonstrate the party’s weakness. On the contrary, when individuals are convicted or held legally accountable, it demonstrates the strength of our team and its highest level of responsibility towards society and the country,” Kirtskhalia said.

He stressed that no official, whether serving or former, should be shielded from legal consequences for misconduct.

“No position, current or former, can serve as immunity from abuse of office or corruption. Such cases cannot and will not be left without a response,” he said.

Kirtskhalia argued that addressing wrongdoing within the ruling party demonstrated political responsibility and a commitment to accountability.

“What kind of strength would it demonstrate if we became aware of such wrongdoing and chose to cover it up?” he asked.

The parliamentary majority leader maintained that taking action against individuals implicated in corruption reflected the ruling party’s willingness to uphold accountability, including within its own ranks.