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Thousands of Georgians are protesting in the capital, Tbilisi, as Mikheil Kavelashvili, the new president aligned with the ruling Georgian Dream party, is inaugurated during a turbulent political period for the country.
Kavelashvili, a former professional footballer, was sworn in in a private ceremony on Sunday, just as outgoing president Salome Zourabichvili refused to vacate office, claiming she was the “only legitimate president.” Addressing protesters gathered outside the presidential palace, Zourabichvili stated she would leave the building, but labeled Kavelashvili’s presidency as illegitimate. “This building was a symbol only as long as a legitimate president was sitting here,” she declared.
Kavelashvili, who is the only candidate for the presidency and has close ties to Georgian Dream, was welcomed by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze at the inauguration. In his speech, he emphasized Georgian traditions, national values, the sanctity of family, and faith, calling peace a core goal for the Georgian people after years of struggle.
However, Georgia’s opposition groups, including the four main political parties, have rejected Kavelashvili’s presidency and boycotted parliament. Georgian Dream’s recent political actions have drawn criticism, particularly for enacting laws that target media, NGOs, and the LGBT community, mirroring Russia’s policies. The party also refused to join Western sanctions against Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, contradicting its long-standing goal of EU and NATO membership.
In November, Georgian Dream announced it would delay its push for EU membership until 2028, sparking protests across the country. Demonstrators, waving Georgian and EU flags, clashed with riot police, who used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds.
Zourabichvili, initially endorsed by Georgian Dream in 2018, has since become a vocal critic of the ruling party, accusing them of conducting a “Russian special operation” during the October elections. She has supported pro-EU protests, further distancing herself from Georgian Dream’s policies.
In response to the unrest, the United States recently imposed sanctions on Bidzina Ivanishvili, the former prime minister and founder of Georgian Dream.
As Georgia faces a critical moment, the future of its EU aspirations and political stability remains uncertain, with deep divisions between the ruling party and opposition, as well as growing public discontent.
full story report by myjoyonline