PM Says Car Blast, Targeting UNM MP, ‘Sabotage Against State and Provocation’ Ahead of Polls

PM Giorgi Kvirikashvili said explosion of opposition UNM MP Givi Targamadze’s car was a “sabotage against the state”, plotted by Georgia’s “enemies” to stir up instability ahead of the October 8 parliamentary elections.

MP Targamadze and his driver survived in car blast late on Tuesday evening in the center of Tbilisi, close to Freedom Square; four by-passers were injured.

Police investigate the case as “an attempted murder in aggravating circumstances.”

In a video address, released by his office at about 2am on Wednesday, PM Kvirikashvili said: “What has happened this evening in Tbilisi is not only a sabotage against the state, but also a provocation plotted by Georgia’s enemies to instigate instability ahead of the elections.”

“Investigation has already been launched and all the necessary measures are being taken to arrest those responsible,” he said.

“This grave crime can only be in the interest of a force, which is unable to make its peace with the free and peaceful electoral environment in our country.”

“I want to tell plotters and executors of this provocation – you will definitely be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

“No immunity or foreign citizenship can protect those responsible – everyone will be held accountable,” the PM said.

“Once and for all, we will put an end to endangering people’s lives for the purpose of political goals,” he added.

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