Controversy Persists over Batumi-Based Military Unit

Former commander of the 25th Brigade of the Georgian armed forces, deployed in Adjarian capital Batumi threatened “to obey orders of the Adjarian leader.” However, Georgian Defense Ministry claims the unit is under the central authorities’ control.

During a standoff between the Georgia’s central authorities and the Adjarian leadership last month, when Georgian troops were on high alert, President Saakashvili accused the 25th brigade in Batumi of disobedience. Later Defense Minster Gela Bezhuashvili dismissed Dumbadze. The General Prosecutor’s Office brought criminal charges against Dumbadze for disobedience. 

Statement of former commander of the 25th brigade sparked speculations that the Batumi-based military unit is not under the Defense Ministry’s control. However, the Ministry denies speculations.

“Batumi-based 25th Brigade is under the Georgian Defense Ministry’s subordination. Soldiers from this Brigade will participate in the military exercise, scheduled for April 16-19 in the town of Poti,” Irakli Chikovani, a spokesman for the Georgian Defense Ministry told Civil Georgia.

“At the moment, the Defense Ministry is considering appointment of a new commander of the Brigade,” Irakli Chikovani added.

However, Roman Dumbadze said that he has not received official notification from the Defense Ministry regarding his dismissal, hence continues to fulfill his duties.

“I always followed instructions of the Defense Ministry and I am not guilty. But if the developments turn unfavorable, I will obey Adjarian leader,” Roman Dumbadze said. 
 
Former commander also defied General Prosecutor’s Office demand, which summoned Dumbadze for interrogation.