**Former Batumi Mayor Resigns Amid Ruling Party’s Shakeup**
In a surprising move, Archil Chikovani has resigned as the mayor of Batumi, Georgia’s second-largest city. The announcement was made on Facebook, where Chikovani expressed his gratitude to the ruling party, Georgian Dream (GD), and pledged his loyalty to them.
Chikovani, 43, had been serving as mayor since 2021, after previously holding positions such as deputy mayor and head of the administration in Adjara. His resignation comes at a time when GD is undergoing significant changes within its ranks. Just weeks ago, Tornike Rizhvadze stepped down as head of the local government in Adjara, only to be replaced by Sulkhan Tamazashvili, a UK-sanctioned officer.
**What’s Behind Chikovani’s Resignation?**
While Chikovani’s decision is shrouded in mystery, it appears to be linked to the ongoing power struggle within GD. The party has been facing criticism for its handling of various issues, including corruption and mismanagement of resources. This recent reshuffle may indicate an attempt by GD to regroup and reorganize their forces.
**What’s Next for Batumi?**
With Chikovani’s departure, it remains unclear who will take over as mayor. The city is facing several pressing challenges, including economic growth and infrastructure development. Whoever replaces Chikovani will face a daunting task of managing these issues while navigating the complexities of GD’s internal politics.
**Context Matters**
Chikovani’s resignation must be seen in the broader context of Georgia’s politics. The country has been experiencing a tumultuous few years, marked by protests and calls for reform. As such, this latest development is likely to further amplify tensions between those seeking change and the ruling party.
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