MIA Minister Meets with Journalists

On June 27, Giorgi Gakharia, the Minister of Internal Affairs of Georgia held a meeting with the representatives of media platforms, the anchors of the major political shows in particular, to discuss the recent developments in Georgia, the clashes of June 20, as well as the following processes.

The 2-hour meeting took place in the question and answer format, enabling the journalists to obtain thorough responses on the cases that have become matters of strong debates for the past few weeks.

Using of the rubber bullets, which caused the injuries of protestors, as well as the journalists, was among the topics of paramount importance. The Minister briefed regarding the issue and stated that no bullets that are prohibited by law, were used at the protests, noting that utilization of water cannons, gas and bullets became inevitable after the direct calls for attacking the state institutions. Giorgi Gakharia also underlined the involvement of particular members of the opposition in provocations against the government, turning the peaceful demonstration into the violent protests.

With regards of possible exceeding of authority and official powers by the members of police and other state services, Gakharia stated that each case will be thoroughly investigated, followed the relevant measures, applied to the law-offenders.

“I am well aware of my political responsibility for what happened on the night of June 21 and I am not running away from it. My resignation is not a problem, but I will stay on my post until it is necessary,” stated Gakharia, noting that there are some major cases, including carrying out investigations and ensuring the security across the country, that he is responsible for and has to follow the relevant processes.

By Ketevan Kvaratskheliya