“Gakharia did not consult with anyone regarding the steps taken in relation to Chorchana [checkpoint]. There is suspicion that this was done intentionally to provoke a clash or to prompt Russia to impose stricter measures against Georgia,” said Gia Volski, the First Vice-Speaker of Parliament.

According to Volski, it will be the relevant authorities who determine whether Georgia will request Gakharia’s extradition.

“The investigation has a collection of evidence ready for publication. The appropriate authorities will decide on the matter of extradition. Considering the situation, Georgia has suffered a substantial blow, especially for those residing near the Chorchana checkpoint. What is remarkable is that Gakharia did not consult with anyone before taking this step. There is reasonable suspicion that this was an act carried out intentionally to incite a clash or to provoke Russia into imposing harsher, more rigid measures against Georgia, which could lead to further developments. These considerations are of great importance to the prosecutor’s office.

The fact remains that Georgia has lost a substantial portion of territory, and the occupation zone has expanded once again. Regarding the events of June 20, Strasbourg demanded an investigation into police misconduct. What stance did the leadership, including Gakharia, take in this situation? For several hours, the police stood firm in the face of a furious assault, refusing to retreat or tolerate insults. They were arrested, kidnapped, some were stripped of their equipment, humiliated, and subsequent proceedings ensued, an investigation that Strasbourg has requested.

Facts should substantiate any assessment. Naturally, in this case, the relevant structures may decide to request extradition. What is especially intriguing is what has happened to us, who the traitors are, and who are the individuals fighting to destabilise Georgia,” Gia Volski stated.

The Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia has initiated criminal proceedings against former Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia. As Prosecutor General Giorgi Gvarakidze stated during a briefing, the case concerns events of June 20-21, 2019, and the situation in Chorchana.

Gakharia faces charges under Articles 25, 117, Part 3, Subparagraph “m,” and Article 333, Part 2 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which carry a maximum sentence of up to 13 years’ imprisonment.