Many of Georgia's cultural figures are convinced that Tsulukiani is on a mission to force loyalty to the government across various areas of arts and culture.
While Saakashvili's health was the official reason for Kyiv to order the Georgian ambassador to leave, more far-reaching dissatisfaction is believed to be behind the decision.
The release of Nika Gvaramia, founder of the pro-opposition Mtavari TV, is believed to improve the country's chances of getting EU candidate status later this year.
The figurehead president warned that denying EU membership candidate status would embolden Russia and empower the already-ascendant forces of illiberalism in Georgia.