Georgian Dream Proposes Changes to Strengthen Investigative Commission
By Liza Mchedlidze
Wednesday, March 12, 2025
The Georgian Dream (GD) has proposed amendments to the Parliament's procedural rules, aiming to expand the powers and functions of temporary investigative commissions. The changes are specifically designed to enhance the effectiveness of the commission established to investigate alleged wrongdoings by the previous United National Movement (UNM) government.
The new amendments would allow the commission to assign a single member to gather information from individuals who voluntarily wish to provide testimony. Under current rules, at least three members, including an opposition representative, must be involved in such questioning.
The amendment would also mandate that individuals providing explanations are informed of the legal consequences of making false statements.
The commission will be permitted to hold meetings on days when the Parliament's plenary sessions are scheduled, but not during the plenary sessions themselves. This change is designed to ensure the commission's work proceeds without disrupting the parliamentary agenda.
The commission would gain the ability to raise the issue of starting an investigation at any stage of its activities if there is reasonable suspicion of illegal conduct. This includes the option to initiate administrative or disciplinary action.
The proposed changes have been introduced by members of Georgian Dream and People's Power. The MPs behind these amendments include Shalva Papuashvili, Davit Matikashvili, Giorgi Kakhiani, Irakli Shatakishvili, Greta Tsitsava, and Guram Macharashvili.
The investigative commission, led by former Justice Minister Thea Tsulukiani, is tasked with reviewing the actions and decisions of the government during the UNM's rule. Tsulukiani highlighted the need for additional powers during a commission meeting on February 14, citing the large volume of materials under investigation.
Opposition parties, especially Unity-UNM, have firmly opposed the commission's work. Tina Bokuchava, chair of Unity-UNM, stated that the party would not engage with the commission, even after GD MP Davit Matikashvili warned that refusal to cooperate could lead to criminal liability. Giga Bokeria, leader of the Federalists party and former UNM official, rejected the commission's activities, calling it a "clown show" and indicating he would not participate.
