Tbilisi mayor apologizes for backing Zourabichvili in 2018 presidential race

The General Secretary of Georgia's ruling party, Georgian Dream - Democratic Georgia, and Tbilisi Mayor, Kakha Kaladze, has publicly apologized for supporting Salome Zourabichvili as the party’s presidential candidate in 2018.

In a video address on December 13, Kaladze expressed regret over the decision, accusing Zourabichvili of serving "foreign powers" rather than the interests of Georgia, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Kaladze’s apology follows comments from Zourabichvili earlier that day, where she criticized his plan to hold a Christmas tree lighting ceremony on December 14, coinciding with Georgia's presidential election. 

Zourabichvili, whose relationship with Georgian Dream has soured over the years, labelled the event a provocation amid ongoing protests at the Parliament building. She warned that any escalation would place the responsibility on Kaladze, who has invited children to the ceremony.

In his response, Kaladze dismissed Zourabichvili’s remarks, describing them as unfounded. “What provocation is she talking about? Perhaps she knows better, as it is inconceivable that anyone in their right mind would consider staging a provocation at an event intended for children,” he said.

The mayor also expressed relief that Georgia's traditional New Year’s address would not be delivered by Zourabichvili, as her term comes to an end. Instead, the newly elected president will assume the role.

Kaladze assured the public that law enforcement agencies would guarantee safety during the Christmas tree lighting event, set for 7 pm local time, and stressed that the city remains under control.

Georgia's presidential election marks a significant change this year, as the president will be elected by an electoral college rather than a direct popular vote. The sole candidate, Mikheil Kavelashvili, a former footballer and Georgian Dream MP, is expected to assume office after the inauguration on December 29.

By Aghakazim Guliyev