The Mayor of Tbilisi responds to the dismissal of David Doiashvili from his position of Artistic Director of the Vaso Abashidze Music and Drama Theatre.

“Anyone can have a different opinion - there are plenty of people, including within my own City Hall team, who have differing political views. It’s impossible for everyone to think the same way or have the same attitudes.

As for his dismissal, I don’t know the grounds, but as I said, if Doiashvili wants to get into politics, he should just go ahead and do it. If you are where you are, then do your job and take care of your area - it’s very straightforward.

Anyone can protest - that’s fine - but that doesn’t mean you can just stop working or neglect your duties. It’s really simple. That’s why I said - if someone wants to get involved in politics, they’re free to do so. He has led different types of events for years. A person can have a different view or attitude - that doesn’t mean we’re enemies. Don’t look at those radical groups that are on the streets today acting as foreign agents. There are people who might have a different perspective on various issues - but that doesn’t mean we are enemies”, - said Kakha Kaladze.