Opposition concerned by Mdinaradze’s expanded political role, ruling party MP

A member of Georgia’s parliamentary majority has said the opposition was uneasy about the growing political role of Mamuka Mdinaradze, the former chief of the State Security Service, following his appointment to a new position.

Speaking during a plenary session, Levan Machavariani, first deputy chair of the ruling party faction Georgian Dream, said the new role, that will coordinate law enforcement agencies, would allow Mdinaradze to take part in shaping the country’s political agenda.

“This is difficult for the opposition, as it is well known how significant his political resources and influence are,” Machavariani said.

He added that, given what he described as ongoing challenges facing Georgia, closer and more regular coordination between state institutions was necessary. According to him, Mdinaradze would play a role in facilitating coordination among key security bodies.

Machavariani also praised Mdinaradze’s previous tenure at the State Security Service, highlighting efforts in areas such as counter-terrorism, anti-corruption measures and the interception of illegal weapons trafficking. 

He further criticised opposition proposals on social spending, including calls to increase pensions, arguing that such measures could come at the expense of funding for security institutions.