Georgia’s Interior Minister Vakhtang Gomelauri resigns

Georgia’s Minister of Internal Affairs and Vice Prime Minister, Vakhtang Gomelauri, has announced his resignation.

In a public address on Wednesday, Gomelauri said his decision to step down had not been easy, citing a desire to devote more time to his family after more than a decade of service in senior state positions.

“For more than 10 years, I have held the positions of Minister of Internal Affairs of Georgia, Head of the State Security Service and Vice Prime Minister,” he said. “Being in high-ranking state positions for so many years is a very laborious task and requires a lot of energy.”

Gomelauri, a close ally of Georgian Dream party founder and honorary chair Bidzina Ivanishvili, highlighted his long-standing loyalty to the ruling political team, affirming that he remained ready to support the government “at any time, if the need requires it.”

In his message, Gomelauri expressed gratitude to Ivanishvili, whose “trust and example,” he said, had been a guiding force throughout his career. He also thanked Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and his colleagues in government, as well as the staff of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, whom he praised for their service and dedication.

“I remain loyal to my country and my team. I wish my country and government peace, security and the fulfillment of all its goals,” Gomelauri concluded.