The Georgian political crisis has taken a new turn, with four opposition parties issuing a joint statement outlining their key demands. The parties, which crossed the electoral threshold in the recent parliamentary elections but refuse to recognise the legitimacy of the current parliament, have called for urgent measures to address what they describe as a deepening national crisis.
Opposition’s Core Demands
In their statement, the opposition groups directly addressed Bidzina Ivanishvili, founder and honorary chairman of the ruling Georgian Dream party. They outlined two primary demands:
- Release of Political Prisoners: The opposition insists on the immediate release of all individuals detained during recent protests and calls for the cessation of ongoing legal proceedings against them.
- New Parliamentary Elections: They demand the organisation of fresh parliamentary elections to be conducted under the supervision of an independent electoral body. Additionally, they seek guarantees for the political neutrality of law enforcement agencies during the electoral process.
The joint statement underscores the opposition’s belief that meeting these demands is essential for resolving the ongoing political impasse. “The victory of Georgia, of our freedom, is inevitable!” the statement concluded, reflecting the opposition’s determination.
Context of the Protests
The demands follow months of escalating tension in Georgia, culminating in mass protests on Rustaveli Avenue in central Tbilisi. On 30 November, opposition supporters gathered to express dissatisfaction with the current government, accusing it of consolidating power and undermining democratic institutions.
Prominent cultural figures, including theatre director Paata Tsikolia, have also voiced support for these demands. Speaking outside the Rustaveli Theatre, Tsikolia echoed calls for the release of political prisoners and the organisation of new elections, adding a cultural dimension to the political movement.
Broader Implications
The opposition’s refusal to recognise the parliament’s legitimacy stems from allegations of electoral malpractice during the recent polls. International observers noted procedural shortcomings, though they stopped short of declaring the elections outright fraudulent.
The crisis highlights deeper divisions in Georgian society, with many citizens expressing frustration over perceived corruption, lack of accountability, and stagnating reforms. The opposition argues that Ivanishvili, despite holding no official government position, wields disproportionate influence over the country’s political system.
Response from the Government
The ruling Georgian Dream party has yet to respond formally to the opposition’s latest statement. Previously, party leaders have dismissed allegations of electoral misconduct and characterised opposition protests as attempts to destabilise the country.
International Reaction
The ongoing unrest in Georgia has attracted international attention, with Western diplomats urging dialogue between the government and opposition. The European Union and the United States have repeatedly emphasised the importance of upholding democratic principles and ensuring the independence of Georgia’s institutions.
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