Mikheil Saakashvili asked Sofo Japaridze, a member of the United National Movement, to be his representative both in Georgia and abroad at “this hard time for me and the country”.

The former president said that while he remained “a captive of the Russian regime”, Sofo Japaridze would release his statements since he was limited communication with the society.

“Though this would not replace any of her other functions… There are many pressing issues, which may or may not be related to politics. We have been cooperating with Sofo for many years. She is very talented and has a lot of public trust. I’m glad she agreed”, - wrote Mikheil Saakashvili on his Facebook page.