**Georgian Politician Accuses Government of Ignoring Sanctions’ Impact**
Sanctions imposed by Western countries on Georgia are having a significant impact on the country’s government, according to Tina Bokuchava, chairwoman of the Unity – National Movement. In an interview with PalitraNews, she stated that Georgian Dream leader Bidzina Ivanishvili has a “paranoid fear” of sanctions.
**Sanctions: A Powerful Pressure Tool**
Bokuchava emphasized that sanctions are one of the West’s most effective tools for influencing anti-democratic and anti-European processes in Georgia. She noted that while some EU countries, such as Poland, have imposed sanctions on Georgian law enforcement officials, others have been more hesitant. However, she stressed that sanctions can be an important pressure point, especially when used by individual countries.
**A Change of Tone from the Government**
The Georgian Dream government has previously downplayed the impact of sanctions, with some members saying they did not feel any discomfort as a result. However, Bokuchava pointed out that their tone has changed in recent times. “Today, sanctions seem like cannons to them,” she quipped.
**Fear and Corruption: The Roots of Ivanishvili’s Anxiety**
Bokuchava implied that the government’s fear of sanctions is rooted in its corrupt practices and accumulation of wealth through budgetary corruption. She stated that Ivanishvili and his entourage have a lot of money, which they have acquired through illicit means.
**Visa Liberalization: A Privilege at Risk**
In addition to discussing sanctions, Bokuchava also spoke about the potential cancellation of visa liberalization by the European Union. According to her, this privilege is not just a bureaucratic issue but rather depends on specific values and norms that are being violated daily by the Georgian Dream government.
**A Threat to Democracy: The August War Commission**
Bokuchava expressed concerns about the investigative commission created in parliament to study the 2008 August war with Russia. She stated that representatives of the Georgian Dream are trying to rewrite history according to the Russian version, which she sees as a threat to democracy.
**Local Elections: A Sham?**
As for local elections, Bokuchava questioned their legitimacy, saying it is illogical to participate in elections where “the one who counts wins.” She compared this situation to Russia’s presidential elections, where Vladimir Putin always emerges victorious. Bokuchava called on the government to dismiss itself and clear the political field before holding any elections.
**Conclusion**
Tina Bokuchava’s comments highlight the growing tensions between the Georgian Dream government and Western countries over issues like sanctions, visa liberalization, and democratic values. Her analysis provides a glimpse into the complexities of Georgia’s politics and the potential consequences for the country’s relations with the West.
