**Georgian Dream’s Legitimacy in Question as OSCE Secretary General Visits**
The visit of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Secretary General to Georgia has sparked debate among politicians, with some questioning the legitimacy of the ruling Georgian Dream party. Paata Manjgaladze, a leader of the Strategy Builder group, weighed in on the issue, stating that such visits are often made to clarify specific issues and deliver messages.
“These regimes, like Georgian Dream, have problems with recognizing their own legitimacy,” said Manjgaladze. “They visit countries multiple times, but it’s not about recognition; it’s about taking photos for propaganda purposes.” He noted that the party has visited Hungary seven times, Azerbaijan four times, and Armenia three times, implying that these visits are more about image than substance.
The question of legitimacy is a pressing one in Georgia, where the ruling party faces criticism for its autocratic actions and violence. Manjgaladze pointed out that the Georgian Dream government has struggled to maintain legitimacy, even seeking recognition from foreign governments. “Do you remember when Irakli Kobakhidze asked a journalist to recognize him?” he said, referencing a previous incident where the Justice Minister was criticized for his handling of a media question.
**Security Concerns and Foreign Relations**
Manjgaladze also touched on security concerns, questioning whether Georgia’s safety would be better protected with international backing or when left alone. “We should ask ourselves: where will Georgia’s security be better protected, when we are with a strong US and EU, or when we are left alone without allies?” he said.
The politician highlighted that it is not Russia, but separatists and the lack of international support that pose the greatest threat to Georgian security. He noted that when Georgia refused cooperation with the EU and NATO, visa liberalization was put in question, leading to concessions on the government’s part. However, instead of concessions, new conditions were imposed, leaving Georgia weakened and vulnerable.
**Criticism of Meeting with International Financial Corporations**
Manjgaladze also responded to a meeting between Georgian ministers and international financial corporations during their visit to the United States. He questioned why the Georgian Dream government would suddenly want to cooperate with these organizations after previously dismissing them as “ruled by the deep state.” This, he said, is an example of cheap populism.
**Council of Europe Letter Sparks Controversy**
Finally, Manjgaladze addressed a letter sent by the Central Election Commission (CEC) to the Council of Europe. He called this another attempt at propaganda, where the Georgian Dream government tries to show that it is right in everything.
These comments from Paata Manjgaladze highlight the ongoing concerns about the legitimacy and security of Georgia’s ruling party, as well as its foreign relations and domestic policies.
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