MP Sharmanashvili: Political activity cannot justify criminal offenses

“Political activity is not an indulgence if you commit a criminal offense,” Member of the parliamentary majority Tengiz Sharmanashvili commented on the seizure of bank accounts belonging to several non-governmental organizations as part of an ongoing investigation by the Prosecutor’s Office.

According to Sharmanashvili, the process is strictly legal and cannot be justified by political motives.

“A crime is not justified by the fact that the goal was political. If we follow such logic, then terrorism would also be justified. No terrorist says he acted out of a bad mood — they always try to tie their actions to religion or politics, claiming to serve some ‘great’ purpose. Political activity is not an indulgence if you commit a criminal offense. Everyone must understand this,” Sharmanashvili stated.

He emphasized that no fabricated charges are being pursued and that individuals who have not committed crimes will not face prosecution.

“The Georgian state does not need, nor will it have, invented charges. Such investigations are carried out under significant scrutiny from the international community. There is a high probability that the case may reach Strasbourg, which is why the investigation will be conducted at the highest level and with the highest standards. If they appeal, they will lose again, just as they have lost in Strasbourg before,” Sharmanashvili added.