Ruling party official slams American political scientist Fukuyama for labeling Ivanishvili as oligarch

Mamuka Mdinaradze, the executive secretary of the ruling Georgian Dream party, on Tuesday slammed American political scientist Francis Fukuyama for labeling Bidzina Ivanishvili, the founder of the GD and its current honorary chair, as an oligarch. 

Mdinaradze asserted Ivanishvili’s identity as a philanthropist and astute politician, attributing to him “exceptional mental prowess that significantly contributed to the country’s rescue”. 

He further dismissed Fukuyama’s characterization as “uninteresting”, emphasizing society’s ability to discern between virtuous and malevolent deeds and condemned attempts to vilify individuals who do good deeds, deeming it the epitome of wrongdoing.

“Despite Fukuyama’s claims of oligarchy, Ivanishvili’s tangible contributions have been pivotal in physically rescuing our nation. Presently, under his guidance, we endeavor to spiritually rejuvenate our country. The majority of Georgia’s populace comprehends this reality. Criticism levied against him lacks substance. Our society adeptly distinguishes between right and wrong, evident in our electoral choices, public sentiments, and prevailing attitudes. Ivanishvili, at personal sacrifice, has committed himself to the nation’s salvation. Therefore, Fukuyama’s accusations hold no merit and attempting to exploit them is utterly futile,” stated Mdinaradze.

In his recent Tbilisi comments Fukuyama claimed “I believe the majority of Georgians aspire to align with Europe, the United States, and our Euro-Atlantic allies. However, there is one individual exerting influence in the opposite direction”. 

He added “the trend towards closer ties with Russia is fraught with numerous risks. The problem lies in the fact that the oligarchs in power do not necessarily reflect the aspirations of the Georgian population”.