Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili has reiterated that his offer to pardon several opposition leaders remains valid, framing the move as a gesture of political goodwill aimed at fostering a more constructive democratic environment.

In a public statement, Kavelashvili underscored the essential role of the opposition in a healthy democracy:

“When society needs an alternative, it should come from the opposition. Their role is to offer something better than what the government provides. If they want to come to power, they must convince citizens they can do better. Unfortunately, we don’t currently have such an opposition—they are focused on destructive actions.”

The President also addressed recent legal actions taken against members of certain opposition parties, stating that while some groups chose to participate in local elections, they "deliberately violated the law," leaving the state no option but to respond in accordance with legal standards.

Despite the tensions, Kavelashvili framed his offer of pardons as an opportunity:

“This is a gesture of goodwill. It is a political decision aimed at giving another chance to those who believe they can do better. They have the opportunity to fully engage in the elections—if they choose to take it. My offer, of course, still stands.”

The statement signals a potential opening for dialogue ahead of upcoming elections, contingent on the opposition’s willingness to engage constructively within the legal and political framework.