On August 6, the Chairman of the Georgian Parliament, Shalva Papuashvili, announced that the country’s President, Salome Zurabishvili, may pardon former President Mikhail Saakashvili. This statement was reported by the Georgian «First Channel».
The possibility of a pardon for Saakashvili has been a topic of discussion in Georgia for some time now. Saakashvili, who served as President from 2004 to 2013, was convicted in absentia in 2018 for abuse of power and is currently living in exile in Ukraine. Many of his supporters believe that the charges against him were politically motivated and have been calling for his release.
Papuashvili’s statement has sparked hope among Saakashvili’s supporters that he may soon be able to return to Georgia. The Chairman of the Parliament stated that the decision to pardon Saakashvili ultimately lies with President Zurabishvili, but he believes that she is open to the idea.
This news has been met with mixed reactions in Georgia. While Saakashvili’s supporters are thrilled at the possibility of his return, others are concerned about the potential political implications. Some fear that a pardon for Saakashvili could lead to further political instability in the country.
However, Papuashvili has assured the public that the decision to pardon Saakashvili will be made carefully and in accordance with the law. He also emphasized that the President has the authority to grant pardons and it is her prerogative to do so.
The potential pardon of Saakashvili has also raised questions about the relationship between President Zurabishvili and the ruling party, Georgian Dream. Saakashvili’s supporters have accused the party of orchestrating his conviction and believe that a pardon would be a sign of reconciliation between the two sides.
In response to these accusations, Papuashvili stated that the decision to pardon Saakashvili is not a political one, but rather a humanitarian one. He also added that the ruling party has no influence over the President’s decision.
The possibility of a pardon for Saakashvili has also been met with international attention. The European Union has expressed its support for the rule of law in Georgia and has urged the country to ensure a fair and transparent process in any potential pardon.
Saakashvili’s case has been a divisive issue in Georgia for many years. While some view him as a hero for his efforts to modernize the country and fight corruption, others see him as a power-hungry leader who violated the rule of law.
Regardless of one’s opinion on Saakashvili, the potential pardon is a significant development in Georgian politics. It has the potential to bring about reconciliation and unity in the country, but it also raises questions about the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.
In conclusion, the statement made by the Chairman of the Parliament regarding the potential pardon of former President Saakashvili has sparked hope and controversy in Georgia. While the decision ultimately lies with President Zurabishvili, it is clear that the issue will continue to be a topic of discussion in the country.
