Former head of the National Center for Disease Control, Amiran Gamkrelidze, has spoken out against the arrest of Doctor Vazha Gaprindashvili, calling the treatment of the respected physician “unacceptable, a shame for the nation, and an insult to the medical community.”
In a post on social media, Gamkrelidze described Dr. Gaprindashvili as one of the most distinguished figures in Georgian healthcare sector.
“Vazha Gaprindashvili is one of the most distinguished and worthy members of the Georgian medical community, known for his high professionalism, humanity, honesty, humanism, patriotism, and all the qualities that characterize doctors. Vazha has proven this many times to his people and country,” he wrote.
Gamkrelidze criticized the actions taken against the doctor during yesterday’s protest, describing the treatment as disgraceful and unjustifiable.
“The treatment we saw on television yesterday is unacceptable, it is a shame for the nation and an insult to the medical community. How long will such violence against our own citizens continue?” he asked.
He called on decision-makers to engage in dialogue and seek ways to de-escalate tensions.
“The country is entering a dangerous spiral. I once again urge those in power to sit down at the negotiating table and take steps to defuse the situation, there is always a solution. Concession is a sign of wisdom and a responsibility of the stronger toward the country and its future,” Gamkrelidze said.
He ended his statement with a call for the release of the detained doctor and protesters.
“Freedom to Vazha, an outstanding doctor and person, and to the dozens of citizens who are already imprisoned with him!”
As a reminder, during yesterday’s protest, police arrested Dr. Vazha Gaprindashvili on charges of blocking the road. In total, more than 20 citizens were detained under administrative law and one person was detained under criminal law.
