Zurab Noghaideli, Georgian Ex-Premier, heading the opposition movement ‘For Just Georgia’, is consulting with parties, including ex-minister Irakliy Okruashvili, and in late September he may declare about formation of a new opposition union, News Georgia reports, citing the press-service of the movement.
Noghaideli is also establishing links with Russia, on the background Tbilisi and Moscow breaking diplomatic ties after August 2008 and recognition of independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia by Russia. The ex-premier has visited Moscow several times. He was criticized in Tbilisi by the ruling party. ‘Alliance for Georgia’, the National Forum and the National Democratic party were among the critics.
Okruashvili, former supporter of Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili, declared about establishing of an opposition movement after his resignation in 2007 and spoke out against the high authorities of the country. He was arrested for corruption. He refused his applications against the president and partly admitted his guilt. Okruashvili was released a bail of $6.5 million and later put on the wanted list. In April 2008 he was provided political asylum in France.
Noghaideli and Okruashvili made a joint declaration this summer, urging Georgian opposition to unite. They believe that the new union should have single structures and offer the country and society a plan to cope with the crisis.
