**Georgia’s Prime Minister Defends Imprisonment of Opposition Leader**
In a recent statement, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze defended the 7-month imprisonment and 2-year ban on holding public office imposed on Zurab Japaridze, a leader of the “Coalition for Change.” The penalties were handed down for failing to appear before a parliamentary investigative commission.
**Kobakhidze’s Comments Spark Debate**
When questioned by journalists about the case, Kobakhidze maintained that anyone who refuses to cooperate with an investigative commission or its chairperson must respect the country’s Constitution. He warned that those who don’t recognize Parliament’s authority will face consequences, including imprisonment. “If they don’t recognize [Parliament], they’ll go to prison!” he emphasized.
**The ‘Deep State’ Connection**
Kobakhidze also drew attention to what he described as the “deep state” behind Japaridze’s actions. He implied that those involved in such activities are not concerned with their own well-being or future, but rather serve the interests of a more powerful entity. According to Kobakhidze, individuals working for the “deep state” must accept that they may be required to break laws and violate the Constitution at some point.
**Background on Japaridze’s Case**
For context, Zurab Japaridze was sentenced to 7 months in prison and banned from holding public office for 2 years after refusing to comply with the demands of an investigative commission. His case has sparked debate within Georgian society, with many questioning the government’s motives and the fairness of the penalties imposed.
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