GD’s Matikashvili: Decision on banning party lies with Constitutional Court, not Parliament

“Georgian Dream does not have the authority to ban another political party. Only the Constitutional Court, to which Parliament will appeal with the corresponding lawsuit, holds that right,” Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Procedural Issues, Davit Matikashvili, stated.

According to him, the lawsuit is backed by extensive evidence.

“The lawsuit is filled with evidence of crimes and acts of sadism committed by the United National Movement during its time in power. Naturally, it will be up to the court and the judge to decide whether to ban this party. If I were a judge, I would definitely ban it, because this party has nothing to do with democracy, love of country, or patriotism. It is nothing more than an agent conglomerate, created for the very purposes that led, in 2008, to the loss of 20% of our territory to the occupier,” Matikashvili stated.

He added that the crimes of the UNM are so clear that “no one will have difficulty reaching a decision.”

“Democracy means support, and the party with more supporters wins. Georgia needs a healthy opposition, and the potential for that already exists. However, the radical and criminal wing has monopolized the opposition space, leaving no room for constructive forces. If someone dislikes the government and wants to take its place, the path is clear—elections,” Matikashvili concluded.