Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze commented on the recent altercation involving former Prime Minister and opposition leader Giorgi Gakharia, stating that Gakharia initiated the confrontation, which provoked a reaction. Kobakhidze described the incident as a “natural but unfortunate occurrence.”
“Much is said about the duty of tolerance when it comes to politicians. I have my own views on this, but if you are a ‘Natsi’ [a derogatory term for members of the opposition] or a spy, then you absolutely have a duty to tolerate such accusations,” Kobakhidze told reporters.
He claimed that Gakharia failed to tolerate being exposed as such and reacted violently.
“When someone calls you out as a ‘Natsi’ or a spy, you must respond with tolerance. Gakharia couldn’t handle it and received a reaction. He initiated the violent confrontation, which, of course, did not go unanswered. This is a natural, though regrettable, event, but the response was understandable,” Kobakhidze stated.