**Russia’s Influence on Georgia: Liquidation of National Security Council Sparks Concern**
The Georgian government’s plan to dissolve the National Security Council has raised eyebrows, particularly among critics who claim it serves Russian interests. Giorgi Vashadze, leader of “Strategy Aghmashenebeli,” believes this move is a direct result of Russia’s directives.
In an interview, Vashadze stated that identifying Russia as Georgia’s main threat was always included in the country’s security documents. “You will see that Russia will no longer be considered a threat at all,” he said. This change would undermine national security and collective efforts to ensure it.
**Russia’s Influence on Georgian Politics**
The dissolution of the National Security Council is seen as a fulfillment of Russian interests, according to Vashadze. By removing this key institution, the government seems to be abandoning its commitment to securing national safety through collective participation from various agencies.
This move has significant implications for Georgia’s security and sovereignty. The council played a vital role in balancing different roles and making strategic decisions. Its elimination would leave the country vulnerable to threats without a coordinated response mechanism.
**Local Government Elections: A Farce or a Genuine Process?**
Vashadze also addressed the upcoming local government elections, which he believes are far from being genuine democratic processes. The opposition leader plans to meet with various stakeholders to ensure a unified position on this issue.
He highlighted several concerns, including the lack of observers and the worsening electoral system. “These are not elections; elections have different standards,” Vashadze said. He emphasized that the current process lacks transparency and credibility, making it impossible for the opposition to participate fairly.
**The Parliamentary Commission: A ‘Clown Show’?**
Vashadze also commented on the repeated summons of Giorgi Gakharia, leader of “For Georgia,” to the parliamentary temporary investigative commission. He described this commission as a “clown show” and criticized its chairperson for failing to provide lawful grounds for their actions.
The opposition leader expressed his skepticism towards the commission’s legitimacy and questioned why they avoid appearing in court to justify their decisions. This situation has sparked concerns about the government’s intentions and the ability of the parliamentary commission to function independently.
**A Clear Message from Russia?**
The liquidation of the National Security Council sends a clear message that Russia is increasingly influential in Georgian politics. By dissolving this key institution, the government appears to be surrendering its national security interests to Russian directives.
This move has significant implications for Georgia’s sovereignty and democratic processes. As Vashadze stated, it is essential for all stakeholders to unite against these developments and ensure a genuine, transparent process for local government elections.
Read More @ www.interpressnews.ge
