“I was on my way when I read President Saakashvili’s post. You remember that President Saakashvili wrote 6 days ago on social media saying he supported my candidacy as Chair of the party for the implementation of changes, which he believes would strengthen the United National Movement (UNM),” said Tina Bokuchava, UNM Chair.

According to Bokuchava, she thanked Mikheil Saakashvili in the June 16 live broadcast “for the renewed mandate of trust” as her two-year term was expiring in one month.

“Therefore, honestly, the post which I read on my way was unexpected. It is extremely saddening, and I believe that such impulsive, inconsistent decisions have led us to where we are,” she said.

​Jailed ex-president Mikheil Saakashvili wrote in his Facebook post: “In July, the terms of all party officials will expire. We must hold leadership elections in a format that rules out any interference from the regime. My candidate for the chairmanship is Nanuka Zhorzholiani.”