The Georgian Dream party, led by billionaire founder Bidzina Ivanishvili, has announced the nomination of former professional footballer Mikheil Kavelashvili as its candidate for the presidency, replacing outgoing president Salome Zourabichvili.
Kavelashvili’s candidacy marks a notable shift in Georgian politics, with the ruling party opting for a high-profile sports figure rather than a traditional political veteran. The decision was revealed by Ivanishvili during a press briefing on Tuesday.
Background of the Candidate
Kavelashvili, a former member of the Georgian Dream parliamentary bloc, is known for his outspoken anti-Western rhetoric. He previously parted ways with the party to join the “Power of the People” movement, a splinter group that often challenges Western influence in Georgian affairs.
Despite this political shift, Ivanishvili highlighted Kavelashvili’s achievements as a national football icon, emphasising his reputation as a defender of Georgian pride during his sporting career.
“Mikheil Kavelashvili does not need much introduction. As a successful footballer, he defended the honour of Georgia for years. He is an exemplary Georgian, a proud father of four, and a man who embodies our national spirit,” Ivanishvili stated.
Kavelashvili expressed gratitude for the nomination, pledging to restore the presidential office to its “constitutional framework” – a nod to the largely ceremonial role the presidency now holds under Georgia’s amended constitution.
A Sporting Legacy
Kavelashvili enjoyed a celebrated career in football, beginning with Tbilisi-based Lokomotiv and later with Dynamo Tbilisi, where he became a six-time Georgian champion. His international career included stints with Russia’s Spartak-Alania Vladikavkaz, Switzerland’s FC Zurich, and Manchester City in the United Kingdom. He also represented Georgia’s national team 46 times.
A Shift in Electoral Process
This election will be the first in Georgia’s history conducted through an indirect voting mechanism. A 300-member electoral college, comprising representatives from political parties and regional authorities, will select the new president. This contrasts with the direct popular vote that brought Salome Zourabichvili to office in 2018.
Zourabichvili, the first woman to serve as Georgia’s president, will complete her term in December 2024. Her tenure was marked by tensions with the ruling Georgian Dream party over her pro-European stance, which often clashed with the party’s policies.
Image source: georgiatoday.ge
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