**Opposition’s Absence in Regions Criticized by Speaker of Parliament**
In a statement to journalists, the Speaker of Parliament, Shalva Papuashvili, criticized the opposition for their absence from the regions during the pre-election period. “Today, I am on the Shiraki plain, together with my colleagues,” he said, contrasting his own presence among the people with that of the opposition.
According to Papuashvili, the opposition is more interested in staying in comfort zones, such as cities and capitals, where they can focus on international relations rather than engaging with local communities. He accused them of being overly dependent on foreign politicians’ statements and opinions, rather than listening to their own people’s needs and concerns.
**Radical Opposition’s Focus on Foreign Interests**
The Speaker of Parliament pointed out that the radical opposition has a fundamental crisis – they are more focused on what foreign politicians say, rather than serving the interests of their own country. He noted that foreign ambassadors, such as the German ambassador, do not represent Georgian interests, but rather those of their home countries.
Papuashvili also stated that some members of the radical opposition are reluctant to admit that they prioritize foreign interests over those of their own people. “They don’t want to acknowledge that where they operate, it’s not about Georgia’s interests – it’s about the interests of other countries,” he said.
**Artificial Division within Opposition**
The Speaker of Parliament also criticized the division within the opposition as artificial and manufactured. He accused them of trying to portray themselves as divided between “Nationals” and “non-Nationals”, when in reality, they are all part of the same team – the United National Movement (UNM).
Papuashvili pointed out that some radical opposition parties have formed local-level coalitions with the UNM, while others claim to be separate entities. However, he argued that this is just an attempt to hide the UNM brand from the eyes of Georgians and present it as something new.
**Commentary**
The criticism by Papuashvili highlights a significant issue in Georgian politics – the opposition’s lack of engagement with local communities and their over-reliance on foreign support. The Speaker of Parliament’s statements also suggest that some members of the radical opposition are more interested in promoting foreign interests than serving those of their own country.
**Analysis**
The situation described by Papuashvili raises questions about the role of foreign influence in Georgian politics and the priorities of the opposition parties. It also underscores the need for a more nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in national politics, where local and international interests often intersect.
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