Javakheti Governor Resigns in Disgrace

(Tbilisi, January 29, Civil Georgia)Governor of Samtkhe-Javakheti province of Georgia resigned after 7 years of holding the post. President Eduard Shevardnadze accepted the resignation.

Giorgi Baramidze allegedly filed resignation after beating up the chairman of the local council of the city of Akhaltsike. Reportedly Baramidze was drunk at the time of incident.

Prosecutor’s office provides no detailed information whether or not the criminal case has been filed against ex-governor.

Baramidze was heavily criticized for his harsh methods in a province populated by Armenian minority. President Shevardnadze repeatedly supported his candidacy.