“I do not believe that the current situation, including the sanctions, is a result of our opposition’s efforts,” stated Sandro Rakviashvili, a leader of the Girchi party, during his appearance on the GPB First Channel’s program “Topic of the Day.”

“Our European partners are far more concerned about our circumstances than our own opposition colleagues. If they were genuinely effective, the troubling events unfolding in our country simply would not be happening. I find it hard to accept that individuals who make incoherent statements and engage in irresponsible actions domestically suddenly become insightful and capable once they cross the border,” Rakviashvili emphasized.

He suggested that a straightforward test exists to evaluate their commitment: elections are imminent, and for any political party, this is a critical focus. Political parties exist from one election to the next, and irrespective of the circumstances, there are merely three months left before applications must be submitted to the Central Election Commission (CEC). Thus, a political party cannot afford to lack a clear position on whether to participate in the elections or not.

“Nobody has announced this. Everyone has declared that they will not participate under the current circumstances, but what exactly are these circumstances? Some claim there is no time for discussion at all, while others say they will not participate if the situation deteriorates. What does that imply? Could they, for instance, declare that if the CEC chairman isn’t changed, they will withdraw? The clear criterion will be on July 15; if Kalandarishvili remains chairman, we’ll know this party is opting out. But has anyone made such a definitive statement? Imagine a political party that, six months before elections, cannot even clarify its participation,” Rakviashvili remarked.

When asked about his expectations for March 31, particularly since it has been announced that former President Salome Zourabichvili and the opposition will meet—Levan Sanikidze even hinted at potential concrete decisions regarding unification or coordination—Rakviashvili expressed scepticism regarding any involvement from Zourabichvili.

“We have witnessed the failure of her initiatives numerous times, even when we sincerely tried to assist and engage. You might recall her first reconciliation initiative, during which Iago and I were at the presidential palace, alongside Irakli Kobakhidze. The entire opposition criticized us, questioning how we could approach the president, whom they labelled a ‘Kotsi.’ The president proposed many other initiatives, and while we initially believed she was genuine in her efforts, we aimed to maintain a constructive stance. Eventually, we realized that nothing would come of it, regardless of the reasons. Whether you believed it or not, nothing materialized, and subsequently, nothing truly did. Does anyone remember the Charter? There was a coordination headquarters established for the pre-election period to safeguard against election fraud. Do you recall anyone being part of that headquarters? Yet, they announced it, didn’t they? You can recall her numerous initiatives, but, in my opinion, the most significant mistake the opposition made was portraying Salome Zourabichvili as a unifier. It’s somewhat amusing that now, on March 31, we are expected to believe that Salome Zourabichvili will unite these factions. Consider the unification attempt between Mamuka Khazaradze and Gakharia—it resembled a soap opera. They came and went, and the entire country watched to see if a deal would come together. What did we gain from that? Did anything positive arise from it? Madam Salome could not bring those two together. Now, with the United National Movement, Gvaramia’s party, and the newly formed Freedom Square, which broke away from its alliance with Lelo, how can she unify these groups?” Rakviashvili stated.

In response to host Tamta Sanikidze’s question about the Girchi party’s expectations for improved results in local self-government elections compared to the parliamentary elections, Sandro Rakviashvili expressed hope.

“I trust that the Georgian people will recognize our consistency and rationality amidst the current chaotic backdrop unfolding in the country,” he concluded.