“Not only Nanuka Zhorzholiani, but other potential and current members as well, have specific visions and ideas for reforming the party. We will see in the coming months who is best able to secure support for their ideas,” stated United National Movement (UNM) member Irakli Pavlenishvili.

He added that the identity of the party chair will be decided at the party congress, where the delegates will elect them.

“Changes within our party will take place at the congress, where the delegates and party members themselves will determine what happens and how. Nanuka Zhorzholiani joining us is a very significant step. Everyone within the United National Movement team is delighted to welcome Nanuka Zhorzholiani and her team members into our party ranks.

Not only Nanuka Zhorzholiani, but also other potential and current members have specific visions and ideas for reforming the party. Ultimately, we will see over the coming months who garners more support and who can win over the majority for their ideas. Zhorzholiani, like anyone else, naturally wants what is best for this party and for the political process as a whole. Nor are we opposed to progress in any direction. The fact that they desire improvement does not mean they disrespect the party or its members. If that were the case, they would not be linking their future to this party, even potentially.

The delegates elect the chairperson, and consultations are currently ongoing regarding who the candidates might be. While these consultations are underway, we do not intend to discuss the matter publicly. We are a large party, so there may be many interested individuals and groups backing specific candidates. All of this will come to light soon. The choice rests with the delegates attending the congress. Once it takes place, we will learn who the chairperson will be. When a new face emerges in the party, it does not automatically mean anyone is dissatisfied with the party’s work. New faces are always good for a party. As for specific candidates, none have been formally named yet, so we cannot discuss who will support whom,” Irakli Pavlenishvili stated.

Pavlenishvili also noted that the United National Movement has no intention of leaving the Opposition Alliance.

“We have no intention of leaving the alliance, as the existing tactical reasons for our involvement have not changed. We remain in opposition, we remain in protest, and we continue our fight against Ivanishvili’s regime. We have solid agreements on critical issues, such as the electoral reforms needed to ensure fair elections. Personal attacks are a hindrance and create an unprofessional environment within the alliance. If the attacks on the United National Movement and its leaders stop, then we can continue our work. If they do not, a professional working environment will be impossible. However, the fact remains that, at this stage, we are not going anywhere,” Pavlenishvili concluded.