Irakli Kobakhidze: Paata Burchuladze has signaled an intention to admit guilt—which is a good thing; I urge him to confess to the crime, and he will be released from prison, as for his son—having a son like that is a very heavy thing

"Having a son like that is a very heavy thing; I don't even know what else to say," remarked Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze. He was responding to a statement by Shukri Burchuladze - the son of Paata Burchuladze, who was convicted in the "October 4 case" - suggesting that "after other prisoners are released, there will be a discussion regarding whether Paata Burchuladze is more valuable in prison or at liberty."

Irakli Kobakhidze also addressed Paata Burchuladze’s own stance—that a plea bargain with Georgian Dream represents an opportunity to be freed from unlawful imprisonment rather than an act of contrition.

"Of course, this statement by Burchuladze is a clear signal of intent. Naturally, he does not want to remain in prison, and in this way, he has essentially signaled an eventual admission of guilt. That would be a good thing; I urge him to admit his crime as well. In that event, we would take the appropriate step, and he would be released from custody. Even though these individuals—Zodelava, Burchuladze, and others—committed a grave crime by attempting to overthrow the government, we are prepared to take the appropriate step regardless. I am pleased that he has signaled his intention to confess; naturally, if that step is taken, we will respond accordingly... [As for his son], I don't know—having a son like that is a heavy thing; I hardly know what else to say. At one time, Chakhunashvili’s son made a similar statement, and now Burchuladze’s son has done the same. I will repeat: this reflects a 'Pavlik Morozov' attitude toward one's parent," stated Kobakhidze.