“This is a very important step, and we are all very positively disposed toward seeing her and her team members in our party ranks,” said one of the leaders of the United National Movement, Irakli Pavlenishvili, responding to journalists’ questions about the offer made by the party founder, Mikheil Saakashvili, regarding Nanuka Zhorzholiani joining the UNM.

As for whether Nanuka Zhorzholiani could become party chair, Pavlenishvili said that кадров decisions will be made in the coming months at the party congress, based on the majority vote of delegates.

“Changes in the party will take place at the congress, where delegates — our party members — will decide themselves what and how will happen. This is a very important step, and we are all very positively disposed toward seeing her and even members of her team in our party ranks. As for specific changes, not only Nanuka Zhorzholiani but also other potential or current members have concrete visions, an agenda, and interesting ideas regarding party reforms. Ultimately, we will see in the coming months who has more supporters and who will be able to get their ideas approved by the majority. The party chair is elected by delegates; until then, consultations are ongoing, and while consultations are underway, I do not intend to speak about this topic. It is simply a large party, and there may be many interested individuals, there may be different groups with their own candidates. Everything will become clear very soon, so you will not have to wait long. The decision will be made by the delegates attending the UNM congress. When the congress is held, we will know who the party chair will be. When a new face appears in the party, it does not mean that someone is dissatisfied with the work of the ‘National Movement.’ A new face is always a positive thing for a political force. At this stage, it is not known who the candidates will be,” Pavlenishvili said.