**Parliamentary Speaker Shalva Papuashvili Speaks Out on Giorgi Gakharia’s Situation**
In a recent statement to journalists, the Speaker of Parliament, Shalva Papuashvili, expressed his views on the suspension of Giorgi Gakharia’s parliamentary mandates and immunity. According to Papuashvili, the situation is not surprising given that Gakharia and other parliament members have essentially been absent from their duties.
**Immunity Not a Shield**
Papuashvili pointed out that Parliament has the power to lift immunity with a simple majority vote. He argued that this means that if a member of Parliament commits a crime, and the Prosecutor’s Office has sufficient evidence, they can submit a motion to strip them of their immunity.
**Mandates Suspended**
The Speaker also commented on the suspension of Gakharia’s mandates, stating that these were effectively annulled by his own actions. He noted that when people elected by the public betray their voters and fail to carry out their duties, they should not be surprised if they lose their mandates.
**Giorgi Gakharia’s Disappearance**
Papuashvili also spoke about Gakharia’s sudden disappearance from the country while under investigation. The Speaker described this as “absurd” and noted that it is the first time he has heard of someone attending scheduled meetings without a return ticket. He questioned what Gakharia was afraid of and suggested that his image as a brave, courageous man may be false.
**A Message to Gakharia**
In conclusion, Papuashvili stated that since Gakharia is afraid, the commission agreed to a remote hearing, which he will attend tomorrow. This has sparked speculation about what will happen next in this saga.
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