On May 7, Irakli Kobakhidze, the Prime Minister of Georgia, was appointed the new chair of the ruling Georgian Dream party during its congress.
During the congress, Kobakhidze credited Bidzina Ivanishvili with ensuring that Georgia experienced "13 uninterrupted years of peace" for the first time since regaining independence. Kobakhidze emphasized that the country currently enjoys stability, rapid economic growth, and greater sovereignty and independence. He expressed gratitude to Ivanishvili for his "dedication to the homeland," wisdom, foresight, and role in ending authoritarianism while strengthening democracy, the rule of law, and human rights.
Kobakhidze reiterated Georgian Dream’s established rhetoric about external threats, warning of "influential forces" seeking to undermine even the most powerful states by destabilizing economies, attacking democratic principles, and attempting to erase national and religious identities. He accused these forces of opposing Christianity, morality, and traditional values while exploiting other countries for their political interests. Kobakhidze stated, "Over these 13 years, we have fought and continue to fight uncompromisingly for Georgia’s sovereignty, the well-being of the Georgian people, democracy, and the rule of law." He described this as an "unequal battle" where Georgia’s only advantage is the truth and warned that "any retreat would be a crime against our nation."
Kobakhidze also announced the start of Georgian Dream’s preparations for upcoming local elections, expressing confidence in securing a tenth consecutive victory. He outlined the party’s principal objectives, including strengthening democracy and the rule of law, enhancing the country’s independence and security, advancing economic growth, reinforcing Georgia’s international standing, and achieving EU membership. Additionally, he highlighted two overarching goals: improving economic conditions for every Georgian family and achieving national unity. Kobakhidze stressed the importance of removing radical elements from Georgian politics to overcome hatred and unify society.
The prime minister reaffirmed Georgian Dream’s commitment to the eventual reintegration of the Russian-occupied separatist territories of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.
Notably, Kobakhidze’s appointment followed Irakli Garibashvili’s announcement on April 25 that he was resigning from both the party and politics.