Merab Turava: The Robe of the Constitutional Judge Fits Just as Well in the Ministry of Justice

In a Functioning Rule of Law, This Appointment Would Raise Eyebrows

In a functioning democracy, the appointment of a former constitutional judge as deputy minister of justice would at least cause raised eyebrows. In Georgia, however, it seems almost expected – at least when the individual in question has proven their loyalty to the ruling party over many years. Such is the case with Merab Turava, who in March 2025 moved directly from the president’s seat at the Constitutional Court into the Ministry of Justice. A swift transition that says more about the state of separation of powers in Georgia than many detailed analyses ever could.

Loyalty Instead of Rule of Law

Turava was not just any judge – he was the President of the Constitutional Court of Georgia. An institution that, in modern democracies, serves as the last line of defense against executive overreach. However, during his tenure, the impression solidified that the court functioned less as an independent watchdog and more as a political instrument. Two particularly controversial decisions in 2023 and 2024 reinforced this impression: firstly, the legal approval of impeachment proceedings against President Salome Zurabishvili, and secondly, the court's refusal to even review the constitutionality of the so-called "Foreign Influence Law" – a law regarded by Georgian civil society as "Russian-inspired" and met with disbelief in Brussels.

In other words: those who consistently whistle to the government’s tune as judges need not fear for their future careers in Georgia – on the contrary, promotion awaits.

A Tradition of Judicial Scandals

Merab Turava’s career was already remarkable – and not in a positive sense – long before his time at the Constitutional Court. In 2006, he was dismissed from the Supreme Court due to disciplinary violations. According to media reports, he had obstructed investigations against corrupt police officers. In a functioning system, this would have marked the end of a legal career. In Georgia, however, it was enough for him to be reappointed to the highest constitutional body in 2015 – this time at the nomination of the parliamentary majority.

His rehabilitation was not without controversy. When he challenged his dismissal before the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in 2018, his conduct came under criticism once again. The ECHR found that Turava had withheld key information during proceedings, despite being an experienced jurist fully aware of his procedural obligations. Someone who navigates legal processes in such a manner can hardly expect the trust of independent courts – but evidently, he could still count on the political elite’s support.

Recommendations for European Partners

Against this backdrop, it would be advisable for European partners, particularly academics and institutions from Germany, to exercise particular caution in dealing with former officials like Turava. While exchanges, joint events, and publications are generally welcome, careful consideration should be given to who is institutionally endorsed.

An uncritical association with such actors not only risks damaging the credibility of European programs but is also keenly observed by the Georgian public. Especially in times when civil society is under pressure, maintaining clear distance from politically aligned judicial figures would send an important signal.

A System That Rewards Its Architects

Merab Turava’s rise to the executive is no surprise but rather a symptom of a political system that values loyalty over the rule of law. His appointment is emblematic of the political instrumentalization of the judiciary in Georgia. Judges who serve political interests can hope for advancement – those who resist can expect pressure and marginalization.

For international partners, the logical conclusion is clear: cooperation, yes – but not with those whose behavior systematically undermines the foundations of democratic institutions. In this sense, maintaining a distance from Merab Turava would not only be wise but would also demonstrate a commitment to democratic principles.