Georgia Faces Constitutional Crisis as Far-Right Loyalist Set to Take Presidency

Georgia is on the brink of a constitutional crisis as its ruling party prepares to appoint a far-right loyalist, Mikheil Kavelashvili, as president in a controversial election process. This move comes amid weeks of mass pro-EU protests and widespread discontent following the Georgian Dream party’s claims of victory in disputed parliamentary elections last October.

The opposition has denounced the election as “illegitimate,” maintaining that sitting President Salome Zurabishvili remains the country’s only legitimate leader. Zurabishvili, a pro-Western figure, has refused to step down and is demanding new parliamentary elections, setting the stage for a constitutional confrontation.

As the electoral college, controlled by Georgian Dream and boycotted by the opposition, convenes in parliament, protesters gathered outside in defiance, sharing tea to stay warm in the frosty weather. Zurabishvili took to social media to mock the situation, sharing videos of protesters playing football in the snow in response to Kavelashvili’s candidacy.

Protesters have expressed their determination to fight for Georgia’s European future, with demonstrator Natia Apkhazava stating, “Our election was rigged. We need new elections.” The unrest continues, with protests scheduled at multiple locations in Tbilisi for the 16th consecutive day.

Kavelashvili, known for his strong anti-West stance and opposition to LGBTQ rights, is expected to face a challenging presidency. The legitimacy of the new parliament is already in question, as Vakhtang Khmaladze, a co-author of Georgia’s constitution, has argued that its decisions are void due to ongoing legal disputes over the elections.

International reactions have intensified, with French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirming support for Georgia’s European aspirations. Meanwhile, the U.S. has imposed sanctions on Georgian officials accused of undermining democracy, reflecting growing concerns over the ruling party’s actions and the escalating repression of dissent.

As tensions mount, the future of Georgia’s democratic path hangs in the balance.