“I do not rule out Tina Bokuchava or anyone else having a chance to be elected, whether for a first or second term, because, ultimately, it is for the delegates to decide. It is clear that Mikheil Saakashvili’s word carries great weight, but it is entirely possible for another candidate to win us over,” stated United National Movement (UNM) member Irakli Pavlenishvili.

According to him, Nanuka Zhorzholiani requires legitimacy from across the entire United National Movement.

“As to why Mikheil Saakashvili chose Nanuka Zhorzholiani, that is for Mikheil Saakashvili to explain. Within the party during an election, we may well have alternative candidacies, and everyone will have their own rationale. Therefore, you should ask those specific individuals. I don’t think they will shy away from it; I believe Mikheil Saakashvili himself noted certain qualities that Nanuka Zhorzholiani possesses which are important to him: her popularity, her social capital, her ability to establish close, strong relationships with people, and her energy. These are the attributes that make Nanuka Zhorzholiani Mikheil Saakashvili’s choice at this stage.

It is also evident from his posts that Mikheil Saakashvili holds Tina Bokuchava in high regard. Indeed, he has stated that Tina is undoubtedly one of the standout leaders of our team. I wouldn’t rule out Tina or anyone else standing, whether for a first or second term; ultimately, the decision rests with the delegates. It is clear that Mikheil Saakashvili’s word carries great weight, but it is entirely possible for another candidate to win us over,” Irakli Pavlenishvili stated.

He further noted that Nanuka Zhorzholiani intends to integrate into the United National Movement.

“Integrating into our political party means not just communicating with specific individuals in Tbilisi, but first and foremost, getting to know specific people in the regions and understanding their problems. This is a businesslike, highly practical, and very correct step on Nanuka Zhorzholiani’s part. It was clear from Nanuka’s post yesterday that she requires popular legitimacy from the entire United National Movement. Generally speaking, when she intended to get involved in this process, she was well aware of the importance of the regions and our grassroots activists, and the need to understand their issues,” Pavlenishvili added.

When asked in what capacity Nanuka Zhorzholiani is conducting meetings in the regions, Irakli Pavlenishvili replied that she does not hold any specific official status.

“Theoretically, a person might become party chair, or hold another official position. In all likelihood, we should expect to see Nanuka Zhorzholiani within the ranks of the United National Movement. We all know this full well, which is why she needs to communicate not just with us in Tbilisi, but with the entire party; the whole party includes Batumi, Khelvachauri, and other regions. That is why she is meeting these people: to understand their problems and needs, and to establish direct contact,” Pavlenishvili remarked.