German Conviction Dooms Georgia's Chief Prosecutor

Otar Partskhaladze

Georgia's chief prosecutor has resigned following allegations he has a criminal record.

Otar Partskhaladze, a member of the ruling Georgian Dream coalition, took office less than six weeks ago.

Allies of ex-President Mikheil Saakashvili have said there was information Partskhaladze was convicted of robbery in Germany in 2001.

Partskhaladze has denied a robbery conviction but said he was convicted in German court following allegations of failing to obey a police officer.

In a written statement on December 30, Partskhaladze said he was resigning "because of questions that have arisen" over his biography. He said he did not want to cast a shadow over the government.

His resignation has been accepted by Prime Minister Irakly Garibashvili.

Ruling party politicians have said the allegations against Partskhaladze were aimed at countering efforts to investigate former high-profile officials.

Based on reports from Reuters and Interfax