“Equating the ‘Russian Dream’ with the United National Movement in a campaign narrative, despite our fundamental differences, is an attempt to propagate falsehoods, bolster Ivanishvili’s propaganda, divide the opposition, and undermine our shared cause,” wrote Tina Bokuchava, the United National Movement Chair, in response to the Gakharia for Georgia banner circulated on social media.

Bokuchava asserted that if Giorgi Gakharia believes he can distance himself from the opposition and weather the fallout of this struggle, he is gravely mistaken.

“The shifting stance of Gakharia’s party reflects a much deeper issue. In the reality crafted by Ivanishvili, equating the Russian Dream with the United National Movement distorts the truth, fuels propaganda, and weakens the opposition. We find ourselves in a battle, and we must determine whether to fight together or against one another.

If Gakharia thinks he can start fresh after this phase, he is sorely mistaken—there will be no ‘next phase.’ It is a choice between victory or collective defeat. In Ivanishvili’s dictatorship, he won’t even need Gakharia to simulate opposition and democracy.

When Gakharia positions himself on the moral high ground, he should remember that his team includes former high-ranking officials from the United National Movement government. Although I was studying abroad during that time, I understand and share political responsibility,” Bokuchava stated.

She also questioned when members of Gakharia for Georgia would resign from what she describes as the illegitimate parliament.

“Since Gakharia raised the issue of mandates, when will he and his team leave this illegitimate parliament? If he claims that mandates are necessary for immunity, what does he say to the thousands of protesters who face arrest every day without such immunity?” Bokuchava concluded.

Following the revocation of parliamentary mandates for 49 opposition members, a banner was shared on the Gakharia for Georgia Facebook page, stating: “49 Natsis (Natsi is usually referred to the United National Movement supporters) have been expelled from parliament; 89 Natsis remain.”