Parliament speaker Kuchava resigns, MP Papuashvili to replace him

Georgian Parliament Speaker Kakha Kuchava has resigned and MP Shalva Papuashvili will replace him, ruling Georgian Dream (GD) party head Irakli Kobakhidze announced yesterday evening.

Kuchava will reportedly leave his MP status but remain a member of the GD.

I am not going anywhere far, I am staying in the political council with my team, Kuchava said.

Papuashvili, who is currently the chair of Education, Science and Culture Committee, is set to be elected a new speaker next week.

First deputy of Education, Science and Culture Committee Giorgi Amilakhvari will replace Papuashvili as the chair of the committee, Kobakhidze noted.

Kuchava was elected the chair of the Parliament in April, replacing Archil Talakvadze in the post.