2017-12-13
I have familiarized myself in detail with Giorgi Gachechiladze's speech yesterday, and it was quite saddening to see and hear what I saw and heard. He, with no grounds whatsoever, personally insulted the people and team members under my leadership. We all fought together, including Gia and me, and many others, to protect human dignity. Unfortunately, I did not expect, and I will not accept, such groundless insults from him. I cannot accept praises from someone who is slandering my team members, downgrading his praises to insults. I scrutinized this issue regarding the Health Ministry's tender which he mentioned. Firstly, after he contacted me, I of course instructed the Administration of the Government to ensure against discrimination against that businessman, and to have in place a level playing field.
Of course, I studied this issue, and I would like to tell you that Tariel Khechikashvili, and the business group where he had a share-or has a share, which is very easy to verify-had nothing in common with said tender. A completely different company won that competition. Secondly, the law was observed to the letter, and I request him to turn to the Competition Agency. He can, of course, contact the agency, but to avoid speculations about the Head of Government appointing the agency's chairman, he should turn to the court.
If the court find any flaw in the Government, I am willing to assume all responsibility, including resignation. If, however, it is confirmed that everything was done by the book, Mr. Gia Gachechiladze must offer a public apology, including to Mr. Tariel Khechikashvili, an honorable man who has never abused his public service or business activities. Throughout his ministerial tenure, he has accomplished much, such as putting an end to endless feuds within sports federations, initiating a number of exciting youth programs, and I cannot accept it when my team members are tarnished and yet I am praised. This kind of praise is not welcome. He can take his words back.