The Mayor of Ozurgeti, Paata Kunchulia, has resigned. He announced this on social media, stating that he remains a “rank-and-file, loyal soldier” of Georgian Dream.
“I would like to inform the public that I have decided to step down as Mayor of Ozurgeti.
Every step I took in my work was grounded in the interests of Ozurgeti’s residents and addressing their needs. In less than a year in Ozurgeti, we managed to implement an unprecedented number of projects oriented toward the needs of the population. In terms of budget utilization and project execution, Ozurgeti is now among the top three municipalities in Georgia. I am proud of the results we achieved in this short period of time. I am glad to have contributed to the strengthening of our municipality.
Against this backdrop, it comes as no surprise to the public that agent-run opposition media outlets have launched a witch hunt against success and progress.
Furthermore, although local government representatives—including the State Representative (governor) and the Chairman of the Ozurgeti Sakrebulo (municipal council)—repeatedly, including publicly, called on specific local officials for unity, I unfortunately did not feel adequate support and backing amid artificially created problems. I will not conceal that I was indeed left with a certain resentment regarding this, which played a role in making this decision. However, this was not the main reason for my departure; I will only add that being in politics proved to be very difficult…
Therefore, I urge everyone to properly appreciate those people who have been in politics for years, steadfastly withstanding severe external or internal attacks and standing firmly on guard for their homeland.
Immense gratitude to each of my staff members—the people who stood by my side on this journey. Thanks to your dedication and support, we now live in a better and stronger Ozurgeti.
Special thanks to my dear residents of Ozurgeti: your support and love were my main source of strength, responsibility, and pride.
Finally, I want to express my special appreciation to the ruling team and its leaders for the trust and support they have shown me—I have always been and will forever remain a loyal, rank-and-file soldier of Georgian Dream,” wrote Kunchulia.