PM Kvirikashvili: Politicians must assume greater responsibility for their actions

As the leader of the coalition and the country, Kvirikashvili voiced his approach towards the situation. 

Below is an English translation of the PM's full statement. 

Political confrontations within the coalition have gone beyond the pale.  It does not matter anymore who initiated this conflict or why.  We cannot insult our citizens this way, especially those who supported us in 2012 and entrusted us with governing the country; those who constitute the majority of Georgia’s population. Politicians must assume greater responsibility for their actions and statements, considering and planning ways to solve our citizens’ problems, because surely our society deserves it.

A few days ago, I made a political statement—and I stand by my words—that the public accusations made by some members of the coalition against the Minister of Defense are unacceptable.   Tinatin Khidasheli is first a member of the Cabinet, the Defense Minister of Georgia, and only then one of the leaders of her party. Givenherstatus, therefore, I believe engaging in such confrontations to be unwarranted.  Most importantly, we must spare no effort to keep our Armed Forces away from political processes.  We cannot let our honorable soldiers and officers become engulfed in politics.

Georgia’s future must be rid of Stalinist discourse, radicalism, and unimportant pseudo-traditions stemming from Soviet era.  Georgian Dream, as a political force, is grounded in our unique national identity and ensures our country’s European and Euro-Atlantic future.  It was Georgian Dream that brought about drastic changes in 2012, saved the country from going to wrack and ruin, and returned Georgia on the path of its historical development. 

Today it is crucial to renew the party, which in no way involves neglecting anyone’s merit.

Georgian Dream will be a strong political unity focused on national values, development, and progress, so that Georgia may not only technically join Europe but also enrich the European family with its traditions and cultural values, this way becoming a full member.

Georgian Dream is ready to cooperate with all political forces able to commit themselves to this process, to take in this political vision, to overcome narrow partisan and group interests, and to unite around one ultimate goal, that of our country’s better tomorrow.

Once again, I urge our political partners to keep all disputes within the coalition.  Otherwise, as the country’s Prime Minister and the coalition’s leader, I will make changes to ensure the Government’s stability and a healthy political processes in the country.