Irakli Kupradze, Secretary General of the opposition Lelo party, has firmly rejected President Mikheil Kavelashvili’s recent offer to pardon imprisoned opposition leaders in exchange for clemency appeals and electoral participation.

“There will be no appeal for clemency to the illegitimate president — we will show him the way to the Russian ship,” Kupradze stated.

According to Kupradze, this move exposes the fears of Bidzina Ivanishvili, who he believes is attempting to create moral dilemmas to weaken the resolve of opposition forces.

“We have witnessed a ridiculous and shameful attempt by the illegitimate president of the Russian regime to trade the freedom of political leaders. We reject any such deal with the Russian regime. Although we cannot communicate with our imprisoned leaders, as Secretary General of Lelo, I know the values Mamuka Khazaradze and Badri Japaridze uphold — the principles, dignity, and commitment with which they defend the interests of the Georgian people. I am certain they would never seek clemency from an illegitimate president.

Kavelashvili’s failed move only reveals Ivanishvili’s fear and aims to create moral dilemmas to undermine the opposition’s unity and determination.

Once again, we call on President Salome Zourabichvili to support unity, common struggle — the very thing Ivanishvili and his regime fear most,” Kupradze stated.