Georgian cabinet becomes vehicle for ruling party head

Significance

Bakhtadze and his cabinet were approved by parliament on July 14, promising smaller, better government. He enjoys the favour of Bidzina Ivanishvili, patron of the ruling Georgian Dream party, who is tightening his grip on returning after four years' absence from visible politics.

Impacts

• Ivanishvili will consolidate his control of Georgian Dream after the reshuffle partially restored his credibility.
• An opposition-led investigative commission is a step forward for parliamentary culture and may trigger demands for systemic reforms.
• The public space for debate remains open and Ivanishvili has shown no desire to shut it down.