Salome Samadashvili sees Pia Kauma’s letter as attempt to save face after failed visit to Georgia
Salome Samadashvili sees Pia Kauma’s letter as attempt to save face after failed visit to Georgia

“Pia Kauma’s (OSCE PA President) letter appears to be an effort to save face after her unauthorized attempt to visit Georgia ended in fiasco,” stated Salome Samadashvili, one of the leaders of the Strong Georgia coalition.

Samadashvili emphasized that Kauma’s letter to Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili does not reflect the OSCE’s position as an organization.

“The international community clearly recognizes that the only viable solution to Georgia’s severe political crisis is to hold new parliamentary elections as soon as possible. Discussions on any other matters are unlikely to address the significant challenges faced by the Georgian people.

The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly representative was unable to negotiate any issues until political prisoners were released, and Georgian Dream committed to scheduling new parliamentary elections. This approach will undoubtedly strengthen, and we can expect increased international pressure on the illegitimate regime. The cancelled visit signifies this shift. Kauma’s letter, written in her personal capacity, is an attempt to save face in light of her unauthorized decision, which led to a major failure. The letter reflects her personal views and does not represent the OSCE. Any official or international organization that tries to engage with the Georgian populace on matters other than the two primary demands—fair and free elections and the unconditional release of political prisoners—is doomed to fail. This sentiment was evident in the message Kauma sent following the failed visit, which was poorly planned and not approved by her organization,” stated Samadashvili.

For reference, MEP Rihards Kols announced on social media that the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President plans to visit Georgia with a delegation on January 8-10. Three opposition groups have urged Kauma to postpone her visit until the authority commits to scheduling elections and releasing political prisoners. Giorgi Gakharia also appealed to Kauma to reconsider the purpose and timing of her visit to Tbilisi. Michael Roth, Chairman of the German Bundestag’s Foreign Affairs Committee, remarked that “Pia Kauma’s planned trip to Georgia is a serious mistake.”

Yesterday, OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President Pia Kauma announced the postponement of her visit. Later, she communicated with Maka Botchorishvili, stating: “Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. I hope we can work together to strengthen democratic principles and processes.”