**Former Georgian Official Hospitalized with Gunshot Wound**
Tornike Rizhvadze, the former head of the Adjara Autonomous Republic government, was rushed to a hospital in eastern Georgia on July 7 after being shot in the chest. According to reports from the Georgian Interior Ministry, Rizhvadze received emergency care at a hospital in Sagarejo and is currently in stable but serious condition.
**Investigation Launched**
The Ministry has launched an investigation into the incident under Article 115 of the Criminal Code, which concerns “incitement to suicide.” One person has been detained in connection with the case, accused of negligent storage of firearms under Article 238 of the Criminal Code. The authorities are working to determine the circumstances surrounding Rizhvadze’s shooting.
**Alleged Note Found**
Pro-government TV channel Imedi reported that medical personnel discovered a note on Rizhvadze’s clothing, allegedly written by the former official himself. In the note, Rizhvadze reportedly writes about being accused of corruption and protecting drug dealers, and appeals to high-ranking officials for protection. He also claims that his friends, employees, and family members are innocent and were acting on his orders.
**Background and Context**
Rizhvadze had led the government of Adjara since 2018 before announcing his resignation in April as part of a broader wave of resignations among high-ranking Georgian Dream officials. The exact circumstances surrounding his departure and the current investigation are still unclear, but it is likely that these events will have significant implications for Georgia’s political landscape.
**Commentary**
The investigation into Rizhvadze’s shooting raises questions about the potential motivations behind this incident. Was it a genuine attempt at suicide, or was there something more complex at play? The alleged note and its contents suggest that Rizhvadze may have been feeling under pressure from various forces within Georgia’s power structures.
**Analysis**
This incident highlights the challenges facing Georgia in terms of maintaining stability and trust within its institutions. As the country navigates a period of significant change, it is essential for authorities to conduct thorough investigations into incidents like this one. The outcome of this investigation will be closely watched by observers both within and outside of Georgia.
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