TBILISI, DFWatch–A political analyst claims the a “criminal operation” is unfolding within Georgia’s ruling Georgian Dream (GD) party, aimed at reclaiming assets allegedly obtained through corruption by former and current officials.
According to Gia Khukhashvili, the effort is being driven by GD founder and former Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili, who, he claims, has faced recent financial difficulties and is now using a loyal faction within the party to discreetly oversee this asset-recovery process.
The aim, Khukhashvili argues, is to pressure officials into handing over their wealth, sometimes even more.
He claims there are ongoing backroom talks, with some figures allegedly being asked to pay large sums to avoid legal consequences. In at least one case, Khukhashvili suggests the pressure was so strong that it contributed to a former official’s suicide attempt.
The analyst also asserts that Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze is under similar pressure and now sees re-election as a means of maintaining political immunity. Khukhashvili speculates that Kaladze may have wanted to step down but fears prosecution if he does not secure another term.
Several recent corruption investigations in Georgia have sparked speculation in recent weeks, with suspects including individuals linked to GD. Cases involve alleged public procurement fraud involving medical equipment and public construction tenders.
Official statements treat the cases as normal corruption investigations, with senior party figure Gia Volski stating that corruption “treason against the country,” according to Interpressnews. He added that investigations should proceed, even if they involve senior figures, affirming the principle that no-one is above the law and that corruption probes will go wherever the evidence leads.
