Georgian ruling party’s chairman retires from political scene

Chairman of Georgia's ruling party Georgian Dream – Democratic Georgia Irakli Garibashvili has officially announced his decision to retire from politics during a briefing.

Garibashvili’s statement has garnered widespread attention across Georgian media. In his address, he explained his decision to step away from the political arena after months of speculation about his future plans, Caliber.Az reports via Georgian media.

"Today, I want to inform you of my decision to step away from politics. As you are aware, over the past few weeks, there has been constant speculation regarding my future political activities. Therefore, I feel it is my duty to provide a comprehensive answer to the questions that have arisen," Garibashvili told the gathered reporters.

Garibashvili announced his decision to retire from politics, stating that the party has "finally formed as a united and strong political force," thanks in part to its founder, Bidzina Ivanishvili. He emphasized that the party had successfully "prevented significant threats to the country and society."

"I believe that the honorable mission entrusted to me at one time has been completed," Garibashvili said. "At this point, I do not see the need to remain as the party chairman or stay in politics. I will continue to serve my country from a different position."

When asked about his future plans, Garibashvili mentioned that he envisions himself in the private sector and might focus on economic matters. He also expressed his loyalty to Ivanishvili, saying he would remain "a faithful soldier in Bidzina Ivanishvili's team." 

However, Garibashvili did not specify who would succeed him as the party chairman.   Garibashvili served as Georgia’s prime minister from 2013 to 2015 and again from 2021 until February 2024. He has also held leadership positions in the Interior Ministry and the Defence Ministry. He was elected Chairman of Georgian Dream early last year, succeeding Irakli Kobakhidze, who took over the government.

During his tenure as prime minister, Garibashvili advocated for developing economic and trade relations with Russia but acknowledged that there had been "no political progress" between the two countries over the past decade. Last year, he suggested that the controversial "foreign agent" law, which sparked mass protests, could be repealed if Tbilisi received an offer to join the EU. However, this year, the Georgian Parliament approved a stricter, "American-style" version of the law proposed by the ruling party.

By Naila Huseynova