Ruling party MP Makhashvili hails Mamuka Mdinaradze as ‘experienced professional’ to lead Georgia’s Security Service

The chairman of Georgia’s parliamentary Committee on European Integration, Levan Makhashvili, has expressed confidence in Mamuka Mdinaradze’s recent appointment as head of the State Security Service, calling him an experienced professional capable of meeting the country’s security challenges.

Makhashvili on Monday said he was “at ease” with the decision, stressing that the agency would remain in safe hands under Mdinaradze’s leadership. He added that Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze had deemed the leadership change necessary at this stage, and thanked outgoing chief Anri Okhanashvili for his work.

“I am confident that there is no challenge to which Mdinaradze cannot respond successfully and effectively. The State Security Service has repeatedly proven its ability to counter threats, and I am sure it will continue to do so in the future,” Makhashvili said.

He also highlighted Georgia’s vulnerability to regional instability, citing the war in Ukraine as a major source of security risks.

Mdinaradze, a senior figure in the ruling Georgian Dream party, will leave his parliamentary role to take charge of the State Security Service.