Merab Chigoev

Merab Chigoev (Georgian: მერაბ ჩიგოევი; Ossetian: Цгъойты Мераб) is a South Ossetian politician who served as the Prime Minister of South Ossetia from 2009 to 2012.

Born in Tskhinvali, Chigoev graduated from the South Ossetian State Pedagogical Institute. Before entering politics, he worked in the construction industry and held various managerial positions.

He was appointed Prime Minister by South Ossetian President Eduard Kokoity in October 2009, following the dismissal of Aslanbek Bulatsev. During his tenure as Prime Minister, Chigoev oversaw reconstruction efforts after the 2008 South Ossetia war and worked on improving the socio-economic situation in the region. Key policy initiatives included infrastructure development and attracting foreign investment.

Chigoev resigned from his position in June 2012, following a period of political instability and ahead of the presidential elections. His resignation was accepted by then-President Vadim Brovtsev. After leaving the premiership, he has remained a figure in South Ossetian politics. His political views generally align with closer integration with Russia and support for South Ossetia's independence.