As Georgia’s newly elected parliament prepares for its inaugural session, the country faces significant unrest. Opposition parties and President Salome Zourabichvili have refused to recognise the legitimacy of the recent parliamentary elections, which saw the ruling Georgian Dream party, led by billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili, declare victory. Meanwhile, protesters have taken to Tbilisi’s streets, erecting tents outside the parliament and blocking Rustaveli Avenue, a major thoroughfare in the capital.
Protests Gain Momentum
A convoy of cars from Georgia’s regions is heading to Tbilisi,
These demonstrations, described as the largest since the parliamentary elections, include participants from Tbilisi and opposition supporters travelling from the regions. Videos circulating on Georgian media show a convoy of vehicles entering the city in support of the protests, a scene likened to a glowing trail visible from above.
The protests initially began with gatherings and marches but have now escalated into a sit-in at the parliamentary building. The opposition and its supporters contest the election results, accusing the Georgian Dream party of electoral fraud. Protesters demand new elections and greater transparency in the democratic process.
Government Response and Potential Flashpoints
Thus far, the government has largely ignored the protests, maintaining that the elections were conducted fairly. However, the sit-in signals a shift towards sustained action reminiscent of other prolonged demonstrations in the region, such as Ukraine’s Euromaidan. Much now depends on how the Georgian authorities, particularly law enforcement, handle the escalating tensions.
There are questions over whether Georgian Dream MPs will be able to convene in the parliament for the inaugural session without confrontation. Any mishandling of the protests by the authorities could potentially spark a larger political crisis, with the opposition threatening to mobilise further.
European Perspective
The protests also draw attention from international observers, particularly in Europe, where there is growing discontent with recent actions by the Georgian government. Critics highlight legislation proposed by Georgian Dream that resembles controversial laws in Russia, including restrictions on NGOs and a ban on “LGBT propaganda.” These moves have raised concerns about Georgia backtracking on its democratic commitments.
European leaders, who recently granted Georgia EU candidate status, have voiced support for the opposition’s demands for reforms. President Zourabichvili is set to address the European Parliament later this month, advocating for international assistance in resolving the crisis. This speech has not been sanctioned by the Georgian government.
The situation in Georgia is unfolding amidst broader geopolitical dynamics. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, known for his close ties to populist and nationalist movements in Europe, recently visited Tbilisi to congratulate Georgian Dream on its election victory.
Photo: Anastasia Trenkler; Source: civil.ge
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