I was forced to come into politics because Saakashvili had destroyed the opposition. I had a choice either to leave the country, because it was dangerous to live here, or to go into politics.

I decided to go into politics because of our Soviet-style government.

It was not my wish to come into politics. I was not a public person; I preferred to spend my birthdays with family and friends. But the 2008 elections were fraudulent, so I decided to finance the opposition to make them stronger.

I get no pleasure from politics; it's not in my character.

My main capital isn't the money. I respect myself; I respect my country.

I would like to become the prime minister, do the job for two years, and then leave and devote myself to public work.