Ruling party Sec-Gen accuses opposition of ‘undermining statehood’ in response to EU criticism

Ruling Georgian Dream party Secretary General and Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze on Thursday condemned what he called a “radical group” within Georgia’s opposition, accusing them of undermining the country’s statehood and spreading misinformation, following a critical resolution passed by the European Parliament.

Speaking to journalists, Kaladze claimed that certain political forces were "stubbornly fighting against Georgian statehood" after “failing to win elections and bring their preferred candidates to power.”

“Georgia continues to develop and move forward on the path of European integration,” Kaladze said. “But there are hindering moments – statements and actions based solely on lies and blackmail.”

He defended the government’s record on democratic freedoms, insisting that elections in Georgia were held in a “free environment,” with all political parties able to campaign and participate. 

Kaladze also stressed that “freedom of speech and expression” existed in the country, but added that no individual was above the law - regardless of their political or professional status.

“No one has the right to raise a hand against a police officer… Whether it is a politician, journalist or businessman, we are all equal before the law [in reference to a controversial case involving media manager Mzia Amaglobeli],” he said.

Kaladze further rejected accusations of political repression, calling such claims “ordinary political speculation.” He argued that some opposition figures were attempting to disguise illegal acts as government crackdowns.

“They want to package their crime as repression,” the mayor said. “Does being a politician give you the right to break the law, harm others, or damage property?”

Kaladze also dismissed the significance of the opposition’s participation in upcoming local elections, describing their decisions as dictated by outside influence.

“It is not interesting at all what the radical group will decide. We know their agenda – they do whatever they are told,” he said, adding that the group had reversed its previous stance on boycotting the elections.