Sozar Subari. (Interpressnews.)

TBILISI, DFWatch–A temporary parliamentary investigative commission in Georgia is continuing its controversial probe into alleged abuses committed during the 2003–2012 rule of the United National Movement (UNM).

The commission, chaired by MPs affiliated with the ruling party and the splinter group “People’s Power,” has received a one-month extension, with its mandate now running until July 5.

The inquiry focuses on what the commission describes as “systemic violations” during the UNM’s time in power, including alleged property seizures, torture, and political repression.

Commission members argue that the findings could form the legal basis for banning political parties linked to what they call a “criminal regime”, a proposal which could lead to problems delineating exactly which blocs, alliances or parties are in the crosshairs, due to UNM’s splintering in recent years.

Deputy Chair Sozar Subari emphasized the commission’s goal of securing compensation for alleged victims and holding former officials accountable.

Prominent opposition figures, including Nika Gvaramia and Zurab Japaridze, have been summoned for questioning. But some, Mamuka Khazaradze, a business leader and opposition politician, refused to attend, calling the process a circus. The commission asked the prosecutor’s office to investigate, which could lead to criminal penalties for non-compliance.

Justice Minister-turned-MP Tea Tsulukiani warned invitees not to “play with fire”, stressing the legal obligation to appear before the commission.

After losing power in the 2012 election, the UNM went through a crisis and shed many smaller offshoot groups, which entered into alliances with other opposition parties in last year’s election. Three out of the four opposition blocs harbor members with roots in the UNM. The commission’s efforts therefore risk targetting broad parts of the opposition, leading some commentators to develop theories about an elaborate repressive plot to dissolve the entire opposition.

Analyst Nika Chitadze suggested the probe’s outcome could be used to justify future bans on opposition parties, while others warn of potential negative international reactions.