Labour Party leader: We recognize Zourabichvili as legitimate president, but won't support her political ambitions
Labour Party leader: We recognize Zourabichvili as legitimate president, but won't support her political ambitions

“We recognize Salome Zourabichvili as a legitimate president, beneficial for the country during this transitional period,” Shalva Natelashvili, leader of the Labour Party, stated in an interview on GPB First Channel’s “Day’s Topic.”

However, he clarified that the Labour Party would not extend their support to Zourabichvili’s future ambitions, including a potential second presidential term or a significant role in Georgian politics.

“Bidzina Ivanishvili appointed her president due to personal loyalty and created favourable conditions for her to take office,” Natelashvili pointed out. “It’s undeniable that her personal interests now align with those of the nation. Therefore, we do not hinder her presidency, nor do we dispute her legitimacy. However, we will not assist her in securing a second presidential term or a prominent post in government.”

Natelashvili emphasized the distinction between the legitimacy of Zourabichvili’s current presidency and her future aspirations.

“She was not reappointed for a second term; instead, she was dismissed and understandably, she is now actively seeking to reclaim the position. While we acknowledge her current legitimacy, we will not facilitate her ambitions for a second term or a significant role in politics. This is about the nature of legitimacy and the perception of the international community, which will recognize the legitimacy of our position accordingly.”

When asked if the Labour Party is involved in consultations between the opposition and Salome Zourabichvili, Natelashvili replied: “We are not part of any such discussions.”

In a somewhat sarcastic remark, Natelashvili concluded, “All we’re missing now is for Salome Zourabichvili to become our party leader.”