“Bidzina Ivanishvili is the primary guarantor of peace in the country. The main risk factors are also associated with this,” said Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze in response to journalists' questions about why Bidzina Ivanishvili, the honorary chairman of Georgian Dream, had to stand behind bulletproof glass during his speech to supporters.
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Irakli Kobakhidze cited "increased security risks" and the ongoing investigation by the State Security Service as reasons for the enhanced security measures.
"You know that there are heightened security risks and that, among other things, there is an ongoing investigation by the State Security Service into this matter. You are aware of global events and also know that Bidzina Ivanishvili is the main guarantor of peace in the country. Therefore, the main risk factors are associated with this. The enhanced security measures taken today, and those we will implement at future meetings, are entirely logical.
You know what is happening in the world, and you also know that today's opposition, this collective national movement, leads everything. In prisons alone, 140 people were killed per year, and human life means nothing to them - it has the value of a straw. Therefore, there are risks, and security measures must be taken," said Kobakhidze.
The Georgian Dream began its pre-election meetings in Mtskheta. Bidzina Ivanishvili, honorary chairman of Georgian Dream, also spoke at the event, where administrative resources were mobilized. Ivanishvili addressed the audience from a tribune surrounded by bulletproof glass specially installed for his speech. He was also isolated from his party members, and after finishing his speech, he only shook hands with Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze before leaving the stage.
A month ago, the State Security Service of Georgia (SSS) announced an investigation into the alleged preparation of Bidzina Ivanishvili's murder, which was organized and financed by former high-ranking Georgian officials and former law enforcement employees in Ukraine. The SSS did not specify when or on what basis the investigation was initiated.
