Georgia, Tbilisi, Jan. 6 / Trend , N. Kirtzkhalia/
In late January 2009, Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili will issue a decree to end state protection for some former and acting officials. The government explained the decision as a means to maximize the funds allocated from the budget to the Special Protective Service.
The names of the officials who will lose or have reduced protection will be known after the presidential decree is issued. The list will likely comprise one-time prime ministers Zurab Nogaideli and Lado Gurgenidze and former Parliamentary Speaker Nino Burjanadze, who presently uses both a diplomatic vehicle and protection.
Protective measures for Tbilisi Mayor Gigi Ugulava and former Economics Minister Ekaterina Sharashidze will also be reduced. Past officials currently in the opposition believe the decision is a form of political pressure.
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