Papuashvili Criticizes Zourabichvili, Opposition Over Church Remarks
By Messenger Staff
Wednesday, March 25, 2026
Shalva Papuashvili has criticized Salome Zourabichvili and opposition groups, accusing them of attacking the Georgian Church and distancing themselves from the state.
Speaking to journalists, Papuashvili said Zourabichvili "slandered" the Church during the mourning period, referring to her claim that the Ecumenical Patriarch had wanted to hold a service but was refused by the Georgian Church. He called the statement false and said her subsequent questions about who attended services showed "lack of adequacy."
He also criticized opposition parties for giving up their parliamentary mandates, saying this decision left them outside state institutions. "If they had been in parliament, they would have been among the representatives, including during the liturgy," he said.
Papuashvili added that Zourabichvili has repeatedly criticized the Church, its leadership, and clergy, and said it was inappropriate to raise such questions during a period of mourning.
On the issue of selecting a new Patriarch, Papuashvili said it is too early for discussion. He said the decision rests with the Holy Synod and expressed confidence it will make a wise choice.
