“Consultations are ongoing, and we are theoretically exploring who the next chairperson might be. This could involve appointing new figures to leading positions, or re-electing the incumbents,” stated Irakli Pavlenishvili, a member of the United National Movement (UNM).

According to Pavlenishvili, internal party discussions are underway, and numerous potential candidates may be put forward during this process, including the current Chair.

“It is too early to say precisely which candidate might receive support, as no candidates have actually been shortlisted yet. When a party prepares for a congress, it is normal to consider appointing new individuals to leading roles or re-electing previous ones. In such scenarios, consultations are wide-ranging and never confined to a single candidate.

Even I, as a party member, might have two or three preferred options.
Discussions are ongoing regarding who could theoretically take the chair. It is also entirely possible that individuals currently occupying leadership roles will retain their positions. Tina Bokuchava deserves our utmost respect for her dedicated service. However, the fact remains that a congress will be held, and we may well see changes,” Pavlenishvili noted.

When questioned by a journalist on whether Mikheil Saakashvili had bypassed Tina Bokuchava when deciding to offer the party leadership to Nanuka Zhorzholiani, Pavlenishvili replied that such processes do not happen behind the current leader’s back.

“Delegates elect the chairperson; everyone in the party knows this. We have a history of holding pluralistic and competitive internal elections. No one is lying here; their statements do not contradict what I am telling you. There can always be consultations and debates over who will lead. Once candidates are officially nominated, and it becomes clear whether Tina or others intend to run, only then can these questions be properly asked. Until then, no one can tell you anything for certain.

Nothing in this party happens by bypassing leadership. The official process requires specific individuals to formally put forward specific nominations. To suggest that a definitive choice has already been made behind closed doors is simply incorrect. To put it quite simply: the delegates elect the chairperson. Leading up to that, consultations take place, and within the scope of these discussions, a great many names can be floated, including that of the incumbent Chair,” Pavlenishvili stated.

The UNM member went on to emphasise that the party believes Tina Bokuchava has performed her duties exceptionally well.

“Tina Bokuchava took the helm of the party during an incredibly difficult period. We all remember the immense turbulence we faced, both internally within the party and across the country; therefore, no one can claim she shies away from heavy responsibilities. At any given moment, Tina Bokuchava may decide she wishes to continue, or she may choose to step aside. That is entirely her decision, and we respect it. We believe she has handled her mandated duties brilliantly.

As for who I will personally support, no official candidates exist yet. I might have certain individuals in mind, but it is premature to discuss it. This is a decision for the party as a whole, not for specific individuals. Furthermore, the Political Council has approved a comprehensive reform plan, co-authored by members of both the old and new generations. Both Gia Baramidze and Levan Sanikidze have brought forward very interesting ideas,” Pavlenishvili said.

Finally, Pavlenishvili dismissed rumours that the United National Movement intends to withdraw from the opposition alliance.

“We have not left the alliance, nor have they made any such declaration. This question is effectively groundless; we remain part of the alliance. Understandably, making this collaborative process successful at this stage is challenging. Yet, despite the personal attacks we have had to fend off for weeks on end, we have not abandoned the coalition. The tactical reasons that brought us into the alliance in the first place remain unchanged,” Pavlenishvili concluded.