Analyst: Government seeks compliant patriarch following Ilia II’s death

Conflictologist Paata Zakareishvili has said that the ruling Georgian Dream government prefers a submissive and controllable successor to the late Ilia II.

Speaking to the media, Zakareishvili noted that the current government does not want a patriarch who could wield significant influence over society. He contrasted this with Ilia II, who, he said, maintained an independent and balanced approach with all political forces, earning widespread respect and societal influence.

“The government wants a patriarch who is obedient and restrained because Ilia II tried to remain independent from everyone, balancing relations with all authorities. This approach won him the love and respect of society. Now, the government does not want someone with such influence,” he said.

He added that with three years remaining until the next parliamentary elections, any new patriarch would have limited time to gain authority, effectively giving the government a strategic advantage.

Ilia II passed away on 17 March at the age of 93. He was buried at Sioni Cathedral on 22 March. The Holy Synod is expected to elect his successor within 40 days to two months of his death.