**For Georgia Party Denounces Investigative Commission’s Demand for Giorgi Gakharia’s Physical Presence**
The For Georgia party has issued a statement in response to the parliamentary investigative commission’s summons of former Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia. The commission is probing into the Chorchana outpost issue, and Gakharia has been asked to appear before them for a second time.
According to the party’s statement, Gakharia has expressed his willingness to speak to the commission remotely from abroad, where he currently resides on a previously scheduled visit. This proposal was made in writing twice by Gakharia, allowing him to participate in the session without having to physically return to Georgia. However, the commission has refused this request and insisted that Gakharia attend the session in person on June 23.
The party considers this demand as “without any objective justification,” especially if the investigative commission is genuinely interested in hearing Gakharia’s testimony regarding the Chorchana matter. The statement highlights that Gakharia had already appeared before the commission once, on April 14, for a six-hour session. Despite his availability to speak remotely, the commission has insisted on his physical presence.
**Commentary**
This development raises questions about the investigative commission’s intentions and motives. If they are truly interested in hearing Gakharia’s testimony, one would expect them to accommodate his request to participate remotely. The commission’s refusal to do so smacks of a desire for a showy confrontation rather than an genuine interest in getting to the truth.
Moreover, this incident highlights the need for clear regulations and protocols regarding witness questioning. If a remote appearance is allowed by the commission’s own rules, then it should be respected. This episode also underscores the importance of allowing witnesses to participate from abroad, especially when they have legitimate reasons for being out of the country.
**Analysis**
The For Georgia party’s statement has brought attention to the commission’s actions, and it will be interesting to see how this situation unfolds. The commission’s decision may be perceived as an attempt to intimidate or bully Gakharia into attending the session in person. This could set a bad precedent for future investigations and undermine the credibility of the commission.
The outcome of this incident will also impact the public perception of the commission’s impartiality and fairness. If they are able to successfully compel Gakharia’s physical presence, it may be seen as an example of the commission’s willingness to bend rules for dramatic effect rather than seeking truth and justice.
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