“The years 2022–2024 were extraordinarily challenging for our country. During such turbulent times, it appears that certain individuals chose to prioritise their own interests. First and foremost, this constitutes a betrayal of the nation. When the country is in a state of hardship, faced with pressure, oppression, and injustice, there are repeated attempts to incite revolution, and some individuals think only of lining their own pockets,” stated the Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Kobakhidze.
The Prime Minister further noted that, at present, the government has the capacity to implement all necessary measures, including those aimed at combating corruption.
“I remind you that the years 2022–2024 were exceptionally difficult for our nation. We faced injustice, intense pressure, hostile actions against our country, direct calls, and explicit demands for involvement in the conflict. Our nation endured three profoundly testing years. I refer to the years 2022 through 2024, when multiple fronts were opened against us. Fortunately, these were not conventional war fronts, but they were still battles related to defending our national interests. In such circumstances, it seems that some individuals—without naming names—decided to serve their own interests.
Beyond the betrayal of the team, what is most grievous is the betrayal of the country itself. When the nation is under such immense pressure, with oppression and injustice mounting, and with several attempts to organise a revolution, it is fundamentally wrong for individuals to think solely of their own gain; it is wrong in principle.
I do not wish to use harsher language, but I want to emphasise that our approach remains firm. Let me recall that already in December 2023, when certain information was likely available, Mr Bidzina Ivanishvili returned to politics and made specific statements and hints.
One of the primary concerns was corruption. 2024 proved to be the most arduous year, marked by intense pressures across various sectors, and it was also an election year, presenting serious political challenges for the country. Under these conditions, taking decisive action was difficult.
Today, however, the situation has stabilised; the parliamentary elections have been concluded, the country is at peace, and we now have a real opportunity to take all necessary measures, including tackling corruption.
Some of us may have known more at the time, which is why these warnings or hints were made as early as December 2023. It simply took some time to implement concrete measures,” the Prime Minister explained.
Kobakhidze affirmed that maximum efforts have been made to eliminate the prospect of corruption.
“Regarding the fight against corruption, I wish to emphasise that it is not solely about prosecuting individuals. The primary objective is to reform the system and ensure transparency. Since the formation of the new government in February 2024, we have taken comprehensive measures to eradicate corruption. All government acts have been made fully open and transparent since then. Thousands of documents have been published, and anyone can review them. If even a single act reveals signs of corruption, we are prepared to answer questions.
Furthermore, today we made a decisive move regarding tenders and procurement procedures. All processes related to state procurement will now be entirely open and transparent. This will radically change existing practices, particularly the previous frequent and often direct sales of property, which led to significant budget losses.
Since February 2024, all such assets have been auctioned publicly. From the moment of our government’s formation, no property has been sold outside of an auction. This approach virtually eliminates the possibility of corrupt deals, which is central to our efforts to overcome corruption,” Irakli Kobakhidze stated.
The Prime Minister also addressed concerns related to substitution therapy and psychotropic medications, affirming that the state has taken appropriate measures.
“We have completely abolished the practice of substitution therapy and the importation of psychotropic medications by private companies. Where we had doubts, we acted accordingly. Over the past two years, we have implemented numerous measures to prevent any threats associated with corruption. This is our firm stance. We will not turn a blind eye to any irregularity, past or present. Whether today or in the future, if anyone provides us with information or suspicions regarding corruption, we are ready to investigate thoroughly, intervene where necessary, and provide clear answers,” the Prime Minister assured journalists.
According to the Prime Minister, he will personally be held accountable if anyone detects signs of corruption in any government decision.
“As for who knew what, Mr Bidzina Ivanishvili delivered a speech in this very building in December 2023, in which he hinted at the necessity of fighting corruption. Since then, we have taken concrete steps. Some measures took more time to implement, while others were quicker, but we remain steadfast in one principle: from now on, every government decision, procurement, tender, and completed project will be subject to rigorous scrutiny. If you observe any signs of corruption anywhere, I will be personally responsible. This is our approach to tackling this issue,” the Prime Minister stated.
