**New Leader at Georgian Railway Amid Calls for Transparency**
In a move that has been met with mixed reactions, Lasha Abashidze has taken the reins as the new chief executive officer of Georgian Railway, the country’s state-owned railway monopoly. Abashidze replaces Davit Peradze, who had led the company since December 2017.
Abashidze brings a unique set of skills to the role, having previously served in government positions, including vice mayor of Tbilisi and chief of staff in the administration of former President Giorgi Margvelashvili. This background could bring a fresh perspective to Georgian Railway’s operations.
However, the appointment has also raised eyebrows due to concerns about transparency and accountability within the company. Peradze’s tenure was marked by allegations of nepotism, including the appointment of his close friend, Mamuka Merkviladze, as deputy director and later director of GR Logistics & Terminals between 2017 and 2018.
Local anti-corruption watchdogs and media representatives have been calling for an investigation into these allegations for years, but so far, no action has been taken. The fact that Abashidze comes from a different background may be seen as an opportunity to bring about change, but it remains to be seen whether he will address the lingering concerns about corruption and transparency at Georgian Railway.
**The Shadow of Peradze’s Tenure**
Peradze’s close ties to business magnate Bidzina Ivanishvili, honorary chair of the ruling Georgian Dream party, have also raised eyebrows. Between 2007 and 2011, Peradze held several roles in Ivanishvili’s Cartu Group, and later served as director of Mtkvari HES Ltd., a hydro-energy project backed by Ivanishvili’s Co-Investment Fund.
The legacy of Peradze’s tenure at Georgian Railway is one of controversy, with calls for greater transparency and accountability. The appointment of Abashidze presents an opportunity to break from the past and move towards a more open and honest approach. However, only time will tell whether this new chapter will bring about meaningful change.
**What’s Next?**
As Abashidze takes the reins at Georgian Railway, he faces a daunting task in addressing the lingering concerns about transparency and accountability within the company. The international community is watching closely to see how he navigates these challenges and what steps he takes to rebuild trust with stakeholders.
For now, it remains to be seen whether Abashidze’s appointment will mark a new era of openness and transparency at Georgian Railway or simply perpetuate the status quo. One thing is certain, however: the eyes of the public are on him as he charts a course for the future of this critical state-owned company.
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