Thousands of protesters formed a human chain in Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital, as the country braces for a political showdown. The new president, Mikheil Kavelashvili, is scheduled to be sworn in on Sunday.
Controversy Surrounds Kavelashvili’s Election
Kavelashvili, a former Manchester City footballer, is supported by the ruling Georgian Dream party. However, the outgoing president, Salome Zourabichvili, refuses to step down, calling Kavelashvili’s election illegitimate. While Georgian Dream won the October elections, allegations of fraud have led to widespread protests. Moreover, the four main opposition parties have rejected Kavelashvili and are boycotting parliament.
Protests Intensify in Tbilisi
On Saturday, protesters formed a human chain that stretched for kilometers. They waved Georgian and EU flags. One protester explained, “I am out in the street together with my whole family trying somehow to tear out this small country out of the claws of the Russian empire.” Consequently, the standoff remains unresolved, with no clear resolution in sight.
Georgian Dream’s Growing Authoritarianism
In recent years, Georgian Dream has become increasingly authoritarian. The party passed laws targeting the media, non-governmental organizations, and the LGBT community. In addition, it refused to join Western sanctions on Russia after the invasion of Ukraine. Furthermore, the government has criticized the West, labeling it the “global war party,” which undermines Georgia’s aspirations to join the EU and NATO.
Delay in EU Talks Sparks Protests
Although most Georgians support joining the EU, a goal enshrined in the constitution, the ruling party announced in November that it would delay EU accession talks until 2028. As a result, protests broke out. Riot police responded with tear gas and water cannons, while protesters threw fireworks and stones.
US Imposes Sanctions
In response to the unrest, the United States imposed sanctions on Bidzina Ivanishvili, the former prime minister and founder of Georgian Dream. These sanctions were linked to his role in the political crisis.
Zourabichvili Refuses to Step Down
Zourabichvili, initially supported by Georgian Dream in 2018, has since distanced herself from the party. She condemned Kavelashvili’s election, calling it a “Russian special operation.” Zourabichvili has also backed pro-EU protests and vowed to stay in office despite mounting pressure.
Legal Threats Against Zourabichvili
The government warned that if Zourabichvili does not step down, she could face criminal charges. As a result, the political crisis in Georgia remains unresolved, with tensions continuing to escalate.