Georgian Parliament Chairman Shalva Papuashvili has dismissed concerns from European Union representatives about potential legal actions against the opposition United National Movement party. Papuashvili criticized the EU's characterization of these actions as undemocratic, stating that such claims are against the principles of the rule of law and democracy. He also called accusations that the Georgian government intends to ban all opposition parties "disinformation."
Papuashvili stated that the United National Movement was responsible for creating a criminal regime marked by systemic violence, as highlighted by a European Court of Human Rights ruling in the case Ochigava v. Georgia. He emphasized that the party's continued existence only prolongs the criminal legacy of that era and disrespects the victims of former President Mikheil Saakashvili's government.
Additionally, Papuashvili criticized the EU for what he sees as a double standard, noting that Saakashvili, despite being convicted of serious crimes, was allowed to move freely within EU countries and even engage with EU institutions. He accused some EU representatives of continuing to push for Saakashvili's release, which he believes undermines Georgia's legal system.
Papuashvili concluded by urging the EU to consider that similar legal actions are taken against political parties within EU member states. He reaffirmed Georgia's commitment to upholding democratic values and the rule of law, despite the criticism.
