Recently, I returned from my working visit to the Federal Republic of Germany and now I would like to respond to recent incidents, which are linked to the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
First of all, I would like to express my deepest and sincere condolences about the death of Mr. Demur Sturua. My basic position is that everyone is equally responsible before the law. All are equal before the law, as ordinary citizens, as well as members of any political party, family members, of officials or law enforcers.
We will not allow any violation of the rights of citizens. In the case of any violation by the law enforcers we will not cover them up. The response is and will always be adequate.
It is our duty to identify any particular case in order not to assume systematic character. The responsibility for a certain malefaction should be charged to a particular person. The fact that it should not assume systematic character and should not become a trend - is our responsibility.
But, I would like to mention that I will protect all righteous police officers and I will not allow to assault the police officers corps that might result in demotivation of honest police officers directly affecting the quality of our security.
Approximately 40 thousand individuals are employed at our system. The vast majority of them are patriots and professionals of their country. Every day for 24 hours they protect lives and safety of each of you, your family members and children.
Therefore, I urge everyone not to insult the whole institution while making any statements, because your police deserves respect! I would like to emphasize that the system more than ever is focused on public safety. I say this with full responsibility! And a police officer was and will be a hero for me! Perhaps for this phrase our opponents will oppose us via certain fact or probable malefaction. In my opinion generalization of single cases is the biggest mistake.
Of course, people consciously attacking this institution, are very well aware that the police is the foundation of the security of the country and its derogation will weaken the country.
Also, I would like to draw your attention to several criminal facts which took place in Tbilisi recently. You can observe that almost all crimes are solved in the shortest time. Immediately were solved the above mentioned crimes. However, prevention is extremely important in police activities and in this regard public mood, cooperation and civic responsibility is of crucial importance.
We need to make a thoughtful choice:
We have to decide whether we need to be subordinated to a potential criminal institutions and agree with their rules of play or we need to support the police and relevantly support security?
In addition, a significant challenge is in front of us now: We should be able to conduct the upcoming elections in a fair, peaceful and secure environment.
I understand that during the election campaign political anxiety is at its peak. But, as the Minister of Internal Affairs, I appeal to all parties to avoid themselves from involving in their political battles the police officers of their own country - no one will be able to discredit them!
Police is an apolitical institution. We are the police officers of Georgia and all its citizens. But during this political process we have to ensure your safety. Therefore, I would like to emphasize that I personally and the whole personnel of the MIA will not allow any attempt of destabilization, any fact of violence notwithstanding from which side it comes will be prevented immediately.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs will act in full compliance with the law. We continue an uncompromising fight against crime and offenses! This is a battle for your safety and safety of your families and police will be an uncompromising in this fight!
