Ex-PM Gakharia summoned to parliamentary commission probing alleged crimes under former Gov’t

Giorgi Gakharia, the leader of the Gakharia for Georgia opposition party and former Prime Minister, has been summoned to appear before Georgia’s parliamentary temporary investigative commission probing alleged crimes under the previous United National Movement Government between 2003-2012.

It remains unclear whether Gakharia intends to comply with the summons. Under Georgian law, failure to appear before such a commission can result in a fine or imprisonment for up to one year.

Several politicians have already faced charges for failing to attend hearings held by the commission.

Gakharia, who took high posts under the GD authorities resigned as prime minister in 2021 and later founded his own opposition party, has frequently clashed with the ruling Georgian Dream party over key political and governance issues.

The GD has accused Gakharia of cooperating with the UNM, claiming both were taking actions to overthrow the government.