“I confirm that there was a proposal to gain some benefit by turning a blind eye and offering only mild criticism of Lelo,” stated Gia Baramidze, a member of the United National Movement (UNM).

According to Baramidze, the UNM has never compromised on the issue of the motherland.

“We did not engage in any bargaining. The negotiations ended immediately once they heard our firm stance: the motherland is not a subject for negotiation. The UNM will never trade its principles on this matter. Regardless of past partnerships, we will not support cooperation with this treacherous regime or participate in any operation that seeks to legitimise it. Our position is clear: we speak openly, and we will not compromise with anyone. Once again, anyone collaborating in this scheme would be committing treason against the Georgian people,” he emphasised.

In a Facebook Live broadcast, UNM members Ana Tsitlidze, Levan Sanikidze, and Irakli Pavlenishvili added: “Lelo was paying money, begging us not to lambast them.”