Prime Minister Kobakhidze: Past Government Employed Vetting to Control Georgia's Judiciary
By Liza Mchedlidze
Monday, March 25, 2024
In a recent statement, Irakli Kobakhidze, the Prime Minister of Georgia, once again discussed the concept of vetting, casting doubt on its compatibility with the principle of the rule of law. Addressing journalists, Kobakhidze asserted that there are substantial concerns regarding the implications of vetting, suggesting that it may infringe upon Georgia's sovereignty and the fundamental tenets of the rule of law.
However, despite Kobakhidze's doubts about vetting, he expressed a readiness to engage in discussions on the matter. He stated that if someone could provide convincing arguments proving that vetting doesn't violate Georgia's sovereignty or the rule of law, his government would be open to reconsidering their stance.
"We have said many times, and I can repeat again, that this topic is absolutely closed. It contradicts not only the current Constitution of Georgia but also fundamentally contradicts constitutional and legal principles. First of all, it contradicts the principle of judicial independence. That is why Vetting is unacceptable for us. Constitutional law, the rule of law, and the principle of judicial independence are above all.
Under no circumstances will we allow these principles to be violated. We are open to consultation. We have strong arguments that vetting violates the rule of law. If someone proves to us with arguments that this is not the case and that vetting does not violate our sovereignty or the rule of law, we are ready to consider all arguments. However, thus far, no one has presented, nor can present, arguments demonstrating that vetting does not violate the principle of the rule of law. We are also awaiting arguments regarding the principle of separation of powers, but none have been forthcoming thus far," Kobakhidze stated.
According to Kobakhidze, vetting was utilized by the past government to control Georgia's judiciary. He accused the opposition of trying to do the same thing now. Kobakhidze stressed that his government is committed to keeping the judiciary independent and protecting human rights.
The Prime Minister also stated that vetting is not a matter that concerns or involves the European Union.
"The European Union represents values for us, and unfortunately, Adeishvili's visits to the offices are against the values of the European Union. Similarly, the statements regarding vetting contradict the values of the European Union. Therefore, our starting point is the European Union. If there are arguments, we will listen. We will be completely open to consultation, but when we present arguments, we expect arguments from the other side. This aligns with the values of the European Union. Everyone should present arguments when they ask something," said the Prime Minister.
