Audio recordings stir controversy in Tbilisi public transport

Tbilisi residents have reported an unusual incident in the city’s public transport system, where an audio recording is reportedly being played on buses and minibuses without the possibility of turning it off. Citizens have been sharing relevant videos on social media, sparking public debate.

The audio compilation includes notable quotes from prominent Georgian figures. Among them is Zviad Gamsakhurdia, the first President of independent Georgia, whose words resonate with historical significance:

“The souls of the martyrs of April 9 will haunt us and rejoice in the heavenly light, because their will has been fulfilled, the will of the Georgian nation has been fulfilled. Long live independent Georgia!”
The recording also features Zurab Zhvania’s, late former Prime Minister’s famous statement: “I am Georgian and therefore, I am European.”

Additionally, the voice of Bidzina Ivanishvili, the honorary chairman of the Georgian Dream party, is heard speaking about financial matters. The most controversial element of the recording, however, is an explicit statement by Mikheil Kavelashvili, the currently elected President, made from the parliamentary rostrum in 2022, regarding the so-called Russian law.