If [Mamuka] Khazaradze and [Badri] Japaridze do not wish to be pardoned they can remain in custody. Such a statement made today the Mayor of Tbilisi.

“Their pardon has nothing to do with legitimacy. Legitimacy comes from the Georgian people, as it did during the parliamentary elections. Our population supports peace - not conflict, not wrongdoing, not being dragged into war. The same principle applies now. If Khazaradze and Japaridze do not wish to accept the pardon, they should remain in custody voluntarily; no one is forcing them. The President made a decision and released the leaders of political parties participating in the elections.

Recall the President’s explanation a few months ago: any political party or politician taking part in the elections would be subject to specific measures from his side.

Everyone has the right to legal protection, whether a journalist, a business representative, or a politician. Being in politics cannot serve as a shield when committing a crime. When a crime is committed, an appropriate response will follow”, - said Kakha Kaladze.