17 Oct 2026
Scandal in Georgia: ex-PM Garibashvili admits to illegal activities
Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has declined to comment on the situation involving his predecessor, Irakli Garibashvili, who has admitted to obtaining illegal income.
"I do not want to make any further comments on this issue," Kobakhidze said.
The PM added that what happened is very regrettable. He cited the importance of "human relationships" as his reason for refusing to comment, advising journalists to direct their inquiries about the state's official response to the relevant authorities.
The scandal emerged after head of the Georgian State Security Service's anti-corruption agency Emzar Gagnidze reported that the former PM had confessed to receiving illegal income. According to Gagnidze, investigators are now deciding how to formally classify Garibashvili's admitted actions and what preventive measure to apply, with a decision expected within days.
However, the ex-premier's lawyer, Lili Gelashvili, claimed that no formal charges have been brought against her client and that he was questioned as a witness.
This follows police searches at the homes of more than 10 former high-ranking Georgian officials and their relatives, including Garibashvili's property. Authorities seized over $11 million in cash along with nearly two hundred luxury items and watches during the operations.
Irakli Garibashvili served two terms as Prime Minister: from November 2013 to December 2015, and again from February 2021 to February 2024.
27.10.2025 08:46
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