Political Turmoil
Georgia’s political situation was thrown into turmoil as outgoing President Salome Zurabishvili refused to step down, challenging the legitimacy of her successor, Mikheil Kavelashvili, on Monday. The unprecedented standoff sparked mass protests and raised concerns about the future of democracy in the country.
National Protests
The refusal to step down led to widespread protests in Georgia’s major cities, with citizens demanding clarity and legitimacy in the political transition. Protesters argue that Kavelashvili’s election was orchestrated to consolidate power within the ruling party and limit Zurabishvili’s influence.
These demonstrations highlight growing discontent with the state of Georgian democracy. As the country navigates this unprecedented political standoff, concerns about the future of democratic governance and Georgia’s international relations are mounting. With the EU and the U.S. expressing concerns over the erosion of democratic norms, the political crisis has put Georgia’s aspirations for closer ties with the West on ice.
Presidency of Salome Zurabishvili
Zurabishvili, a strong advocate for Georgia’s integration into the EU, played a pivotal role in the country’s political landscape. Zurabishvili’s presidency was often defined by tensions with the ruling Georgian Dream party, which faced accusations of veering towards authoritarianism and fostering closer ties with Russia. Zurabishvili was a vocal critic of the government’s decision to halt progress on EU accession talks, a move she strongly opposed.
Upon the end of her time in office, the GD-controlled parliament selected Mikheil Kavelashvili, a former professional footballer known for his anti-Western rhetoric, as Georgia’s new president. This controversial appointment triggered allegations of electoral fraud and sparked a boycott by opposition parties, further deepening political divisions within the country.
Implications of Kavelashvili
On the 29th of December, 2024, Kavelashvili became Georgia’s new president amidst considerable controversy. Zurabishvili refused to recognise his legitimacy, declaring herself “the only legitimate president” and claiming that parliamentary elections were fraught with fraud.
The refusal of Zurabishvili to step down was accompanied by public appearances with supporters, further escalating the political crisis. Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Tbilisi to express their opposition to Kavelashvili’s presidency and the ruling party’s pro-Russian stance.
Demonstrators are demanding new elections and a renewed commitment to EU integration.
International Reaction: The U.S. & EU
The international community has expressed growing concern over political instability in Georgia.
The United States recently imposed sanctions on Bidzina Ivanishvili, the former prime minister and de facto leader of the ruling GD party, accusing him of steering Georgia away from democratic reforms and pushing the country in an anti-Western direction.
The U.S. government has also said Ivanishvili’s influence is undermining Georgia’s political independence, while several international observers accuse him of consolidating power behind the scenes and weakening democratic checks and balances.
The EU expressed grave concern over the suspension of Georgia’s EU accession talks, which has become a central issue amid ongoing political tensions.
EU - Foreign Policy Chief, Joseph Borrell: "Recent developments in Georgia are deeply worrying and represent a significant setback for the country’s democratic aspirations.”
The growing international concerns reflect the broader geopolitical stakes surrounding Georgia’s future, as the country sits at the crossroads of East-West relations. Many Western countries are closely monitoring Georgia’s political future, as it could have a significant impact on the stability of the region and Georgia’s orientation toward European and Western institutions.
Implications for Georgia and Democracy
The current standoff between Zurabishvili and Kavelashvili highlights a deeper struggle over Georgia’s geopolitical orientation and democratic integrity.
Zurabishvili’s defiance reflects broader broader public opinion in favour of EU integration and opposition to democratic backsliding. Her actions have won the support of the majority of opposition groups and civil society organisations, that perceive her as the last remaining bulwark against backsliding in favour of Russian influence.
Ongoing Protests
The largely pro-EU Georgian population has been vocal in its dissent over recent political developments. Protests have erupted across the country, with citizens demanding transparency, democratic governance, and a path towards EU integration. The government’s response has included police repression, escalating tensions, and drawing criticism from human rights groups.
Georgia is at a critical juncture, with its democratic future hanging in the balance. Only time will tell if Tbilisi circles Moscow or charts a new orbit alongside the EU.
