PM candidate vows talks with medical workers protesting dismantle of Republican Hospital

Irakli Kobakhidze, the candidate for premiership of Georgia, on Thursday pledged communication with medical workers of Tbilisi Republican Hospital, who have been rallying against the planned destruction of the building since January. 

In his parliamentary address ahead of the vote on the new cabinet, Kobakhidze emphasized the need for “urgent corrective measures” with the engagement of interested parties. 

He also stressed the hospital infrastructure required an ”immediate rectification”, and suggested the Government priority was to devise an “optimal approach that not only enhances infrastructure but also aligns with the needs of the hospital staff”. 

The official further noted he had “actively engaged” in discussions over the facility. 

Outgoing Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili on January 22 announced plans about the construction of a “modern, international-standard” state clinic on the base of the hospital, which sparked controversies and triggered rallies of medical workers.