Georgia is facing escalating political turmoil as the ruling Georgian Dream party nominates former footballer Mikheil Kavelashvili for the presidency, a move that has intensified protests and raised concerns about the nation’s democratic trajectory.
Controversial Nomination
On November 27, 2024, Georgian Dream announced Kavelashvili, a 53-year-old ex-Manchester City striker and co-founder of the far-right People’s Power party, as their presidential candidate. Known for his anti-Western rhetoric and opposition to LGBTQ+ rights, Kavelashvili’s nomination is seen as a consolidation of power by the ruling party.
Disputed Elections and Opposition Boycott
The political crisis stems from the October 26 parliamentary elections, which Georgian Dream claims to have won. The opposition alleges widespread electoral fraud, leading to a boycott of the new parliament and demands for new elections. President Salome Zourabichvili has declared the legislature unconstitutional and is seeking to annul the election results.
Public Outcry and Protests
The nomination has sparked mass protests, with demonstrators accusing the government of democratic backsliding and aligning with Russian interests. Pro-Europe rallies have persisted for over two weeks, with citizens expressing fears of Georgia being drawn closer to Moscow at the expense of its EU aspirations.
International Concerns
The European Union has expressed apprehension over Georgia’s political direction, threatening measures if democratic norms are not upheld. The situation has drawn parallels to Ukraine’s 2014 Maidan protests, highlighting the geopolitical stakes involved.
Next Steps
The electoral college, dominated by Georgian Dream, is set to elect the new president on December 14. With the opposition boycotting the process, Kavelashvili’s ascension appears imminent, potentially deepening the constitutional crisis and further polarizing the nation.
As Georgia navigates this tumultuous period, the international community watches closely, concerned about the country’s democratic integrity and regional stability.
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