“Many people who oppose us today simply don’t know, haven’t heard about, or weren’t able to witness what real repression looked like during 2003-2012,” stated Tbilisi City Council member Shalva Ogbaidze during a session of the Temporary Investigative Commission on the Activities of the Regime and Political Officials of 2003-2012.

Ogbaidze said he remains optimistic about the conclusions of the investigative commission.

“Many of my close acquaintances sincerely ask me what I expect from this commission. The reality is that many who oppose us today were just six, eight, ten, or twelve years old between 2003 and 2012; they either did not know, did not hear about, or were unable to witness the true nature of repression during that time. How people unacceptable to the state and government were subjected to repressive measures. Not just them, but how, to put it mildly, discomfort was created for their family members as well.

I maintain cautious optimism that after this commission completes its work, a rather severe conclusion will be drawn. This will accelerate the slowing down of certain processes that followed the forced cohabitation imposed in 2012. I also speak on behalf of those who experienced financial and property repression,” Ogbaidze declared.