Tbilisi Offers Abashidze to Step Down, Promises Security

MP Giga Bokeria, spokesperson for the ruling National Movement-Democrats said the central authorities offer security guarantees to Aslan Abashidze if he steps down voluntarily.

“We are ready to ensure Abashidze’s security if he voluntarily gives up power and quits politics.” Bokeria said. He added that this offer is not fully “correct” from the legal point of view, as the government implicated Abashidze earlier in numerous criminal offense. Nonetheless, Bokeria stated “we are ready for this kind of political compromise to secure smooth resolution of the problem.” Giga Bokeria offered these comments to Tbilisi-based Mze TV on April 28.

He also said that the deal would apply to Abashidze’s “inner circle” . Bokeria added that Abashidze is already informed of the proposal.

Adjarian leader Aslan Abashidze called on the central authorities on April 28 to give up military rhetoric and to settle the crisis between Tbilisi and Batumi through negotiations.