**Government’s Plan to Merge Intelligence Service with State Security Service Sparks Concern**
The Georgian government’s plan to place the State Intelligence Service under the control of the State Security Service (SSS) has been met with alarm by Grigol Gegelia, a leader of the Lelo – For Strong Georgia party. Speaking at a recent briefing, Gegelia warned that this move would lead to an excessive concentration of power in the hands of the SSS.
According to Gegelia, this plan represents a deliberate attack on national institutions, particularly those that are independent and pro-Western. He noted that many members of the Intelligence Service have experience working with Western agencies and reject Russia’s influence over Georgia. Gegelia believes that the government is trying to dismantle these independent institutions and halt Georgia’s pro-Western course.
**Monopolization of Power**
Gegelia’s concerns center around the potential for the SSS to become too powerful and unaccountable, posing a threat to the country’s democratic institutions. He warned that this move would degrade the quality of intelligence work, reduce its effectiveness, and create serious problems for the Georgian state.
In a bold statement, Gegelia addressed every officer in the Intelligence Service directly, assuring them that their efforts will not be in vain. “This criminal regime will come to an end,” he declared, promising that Georgia will have a new national government that will protect both foreign and domestic security.
**Implications for Georgia**
The implications of this plan are far-reaching and concerning. If implemented, the merger would give the SSS even more control over the country’s intelligence activities, potentially compromising national security. It would also further erode the independence of the Intelligence Service, which has been a bulwark against Russian influence.
As Gegelia noted, Georgia is currently facing grave challenges, and this move could exacerbate them. The country needs strong, independent institutions to ensure its security and stability, not a concentration of power that could lead to authoritarianism.
**What’s Next?**
The government’s plan has sparked widespread concern among civil society groups, opposition parties, and even some within the government. As Gegelia noted, “This is not just about intelligence services; this is about our national institutions.” The debate over this plan will likely continue in the coming days, with many calling for greater transparency and accountability.
**Read More**
For more information on this developing story, please visit [www.interpressnews.ge](http://www.interpressnews.ge).
