Less than five months after being appointed Head of the State Security Service (SUS), Anri Okhanashvili has resigned from his position. He will now serve as the Prime Minister’s Advisor on National Security Issues. His statement was released by the agency.In his statement, Anri Okhanashvili noted that the decision was made in consultation with the ruling team:
“I would like to inform the public that, following consultations with the ruling team, I have decided to step down as Head of the State Security Service of Georgia and take on the position of Advisor to the Prime Minister of Georgia on National Security Issues.
I joined the ruling team in 2016, where for eight years I actively participated in parliamentary life, and later continued my work as Minister of Justice. My nine years of service in public office have been quite demanding and carried great responsibility. Every step I took was guided by the protection of state interests. I am glad that, together with the ruling team, I was able to contribute to the defense and strengthening of our country’s national interests.I would like to thank the ruling team for the trust and support they have shown me throughout this time.
I would especially like to express my gratitude to Mr. Bidzina Ivanishvili for the great trust and constant support he has shown me in my political career. As I have already announced, I will continue my work as Advisor to the Prime Minister of Georgia on National Security Issues. I would also like to thank Mr. Irakli Kobakhidze for this opportunity.In today’s global environment, world and regional security are facing new challenges that have a significant impact on the security of our country. Against this background, for the Government of Georgia, analytical assessment of these challenges and the development of recommendations for appropriate measures is of utmost importance. I believe my experience and knowledge will help me successfully handle this analytical work in the field of national security.At the same time, I remain a strong supporter of the State Security Service of Georgia. I want to thank its staff for the important joint achievements we managed to accomplish in this short time. I wish success to the future head of the Service and to each of its employees" - Anri Okhanashviki states in a recent release.
