The BBC was consciously provided with false information that was directly directed against state interests, therefore, this can be freely qualified as a crime. Such a statement made today the Prime Minister of Georgia, while commenting the recent report of the BBC.

“The Ministry of Internal Affairs [MIA] and its officials will provide more comprehensive details on this matter, but I can tell you in advance that the information presented by the BBC is entirely false. The BBC cannot be held to the same standards as the unreliable television channels operating in Georgia.

However, it is lamentable that these standards appear to be eroded; a simple lie can now be broadcast by the BBC, which is both sad and regrettable. A lie remains a lie, regardless of the context, and when the BBC propagates falsehoods, they must be properly scrutinised. The facts clearly demonstrate that it was a lie. The MIA will soon release detailed information on falsehoods spread by the BBC.

The fact that the BBC relies on Chakhunashvili’s conclusion already speaks volumes about the broadcaster’s standards. Unfortunately, those standards are alarmingly low. It is well known that both Konstantine Chakhunashvili and his father are active participants in radical rallies; one of them even took part in the storming of the presidential palace. When the BBC bases its reporting on such individuals, it is a tragic reflection of its credibility. There is little more to say on this matter”, - said Irakli Kobakhidze.