Ruling party MP: ex-Pres. Saakashvili seeking “political relevance” through “absurd initiatives”

Givi Mikanadze, an MP of the ruling Georgian Dream party, on Friday criticised the initiative put forth by the imprisoned former President Mikheil Saakashvili for formation of independent expenditure-only political action committees - commonly known as “super PACs” - ahead of next year’s parliamentary elections by calling it “absurd” and claiming the former official’s efforts were geared towards “maintaining relevance” in domestic politics.

The criticism from the lawmaker followed this week’s offer to the domestic opposition by Saakashvili, who proposed the creation of a committee comprising 20 to 25 individuals “committed to continuous deliberation”, emphasising the “crucial need for complete coordination" and "unity" in the upcoming race.

Despite being legally barred from engaging in Georgian politics due to his Ukrainian citizenship, Saakashvili suggested inclusion of key figures from the United National Movement, the largest opposition faction in the country that he founded. He also advocated for involvement of public figures, irrespective of their party affiliations, in the committee.

In response to the initiative, Mikanadze claimed it contained “absurdity and is driven by only one goal - to voice some ideas and demonstrate to society that he is still relevant, and that his personality is interesting".

Highlighting the alleged intention, the MP pointed to Saakashvili's “inability to maintain unity” within the party he had founded.

Saakashvili, who was arrested on his clandestine return from Ukraine to Georgia in 2021, ahead of municipal elections in the country, is currently serving a six-year term for abuse of power during his time in office. Three other cases involving him are still pending.