Georgias Political Unrest: Thousands Protest as New President Takes Office

Georgia Faces Unrest as New President is Sworn In

Amidst escalating political tension, Georgia witnessed thousands of protestors take to the streets of Tbilisi as Mikheil Kavelashvili, a former pro-footballer aligned with the ruling Georgian Dream party, was inaugurated as the new president. The country found itself embroiled in a critical juncture after the government decided to suspend its application to join the European Union.

Controversial Inauguration Amid Allegations of Fraud

Following Georgian Dream’s victory in the parliamentary elections marred by accusations of fraud, several street protests erupted across the nation. Outgoing president Salome Zourabichvili adamantly refused to acknowledge Kavelashvili’s appointment, asserting her stance as the “only legitimate president.”

Political Showdown and Discord

As tensions mounted outside the presidential palace, protestors gathered to hear Zourabichvili label her successor illegitimate before vacating the premises. Meanwhile, Kavelashvili took his oath at a closed-doors ceremony in parliament, emphasizing traditional Georgian values and national identity. Despite his swearing-in on both the Bible and the Georgian Constitution, opposition groups denounced him and opted to boycott parliament proceedings.

Geopolitical Ramifications and Western Relations

The political landscape in Georgia has become increasingly authoritarian with Georgian Dream enacting laws reminiscent of Russia’s governance model. This shift is evident in their refusal to align with Western sanctions against Russia post-Ukraine invasion. The party’s contradictory stance on EU accession further fueled discontent among citizens who overwhelmingly support Georgia’s integration into European institutions.

Civil Unrest and International Scrutiny

The announcement delaying EU accession talks until 2028 triggered widespread protests met with force by riot police using tear gas and water cannons. Demonstrators waving Georgian and EU flags voiced their dissent against what they perceived as veering off course from pro-Western aspirations towards Russian influence.

The US Imposes Sanctions Amidst Political Turmoil

Further complicating matters, the US levied sanctions on Bidzina Ivanishvili, Georgia’s former prime minister and key figure within Georgian Dream. As Georgia grapples with internal strife and external pressure, questions loom over its democratic principles and geopolitical orientation amidst a backdrop of civil unrest.

In conclusion, Georgia finds itself at a crossroads where domestic discord intertwines with international scrutiny, shaping its trajectory in an ever-evolving geopolitical landscape.