Garibashvili’s resignation was not unexpected, says Georgia’s Defence Minister

Georgia’s Minister of Defence Titantin Khidasheli says last night’s resignation of Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili was not completely unexpected, as he had achieved all his goals he set and had "paved the way for a new leader, for new blood” to lead the country. 

In a late night comment about Garibashvili’s resignation, Khidasheli stressed Garibashvili’s action of stepping down needed to be appreciated as it showed he, and other former top officials had a "healthy attitude about their titles”. 

The Defence Minister added Garibashvili’s resignation was not completely unexpected for her; she was aware the former Prime Minister "was thinking about” stepping down.

Irakli had a wish to show the public that it was not important how old a person is, what post they have or how influential they are. … He believed that when a person realised he had fulfilled his tasks and achieved his goals he could be comfortable to leave the arena for a new person to step in.” 

I believe that the positive report on visa liberation for Georgia delivered by the European Commission a couple of days ago played a crucial role in why Garibashvili decided to announce his resignation,” Khidasheli added. 

The Minister noted now it was up to the Parliamentary Majority to name the new candidate for the Prime Minister’s post. 

Yesterday majority leader Zviad Kvachantiradze said the majority would name their chosen candidate tomorrow, Friday December 25. 

Learn more about what happens when a Prime Minister resigns here.