Opposition, civil sector link Governmental reshuffle to potential municipal election “rigging”

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Wednesday announced a government reshuffle, including the creation of a new Ministry of Regional Development. The move has sparked criticism from opposition figures, who argue that the changes serve electoral purposes ahead of October municipal elections.

One of the key appointments is Grigol Liluashvili, the current head of the State Security Service, who will now lead the newly established ministry. Georgian Dream, the ruling party, has defended Liluashvili’s appointment, highlighting his experience in regional policy and security matters.

However, opposition leaders and civil society organisations have strongly criticised the decision, linking it to potential election manipulation ahead of the upcoming municipal elections. Former Defence Minister and head of the NGO Civic Idea, Tina Khidasheli, described the move as an attempt to influence the electoral process.

“In fact, they created the Ministry of Elections and appointed the very man tasked with ensuring the regions are ready for elections,” she said. “The main question is – what is the opposition doing to counter this?”

Natia Mezvrishvili, a leader of the opposition For Georgia party and former head of government administration under ex-Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia, echoed these concerns. She suggested that the restructuring was linked to efforts to consolidate control over public resources.

“This decision by Georgian Dream is also directly related to the recently announced government efficiency department, which is not about fighting corruption, but centralizing it. With this step, [Georgian Dream’s founder] Bidzina Ivanishvili is monopolising corrupt deals as a source of power,” Mezvrishvili argued.

Georgian Dream’s parliamentary leader Gia Volski dismissed the criticism and defended the government’s decision.

“Of course, the management system requires renewal. We have excellent personnel in Georgian Dream – intelligent, well-respected, and experienced individuals. The new agency will play a crucial role in shaping Georgia’s future, and Liluashvili’s appointment should be seen as a positive step,” Volski claimed.

Liluashvili, who has led the State Security Service since October 2019, was set to complete his term in October 2025, coinciding with Georgia’s self-government elections. His background includes roles in the security service, regional policy, Tbilisi City Hall, and Ivanishvili’s Cartu Bank.