Georgia’s pro-EU protests surged into their third week on Thursday, fueled by concerns that the ongoing post-electoral crisis could escalate as the ruling party plans to appoint a loyalist president.
Since the Georgian Dream party declared victory in October’s parliamentary elections, the nation has been engulfed in turmoil. The government’s recent decision to delay EU accession talks sparked a fresh wave of mass rallies.
On Saturday, tensions are expected to rise further as Georgian Dream prepares to solidify its power by appointing far-right former footballer Mikheil Kavelashvili as the successor to pro-Western President Salome Zurabishvili, who refuses to step down. Despite inclement weather, thousands gathered outside Georgia’s parliament, continuing daily protests that began on November 28. Demonstrators waved EU and Georgian flags, blocking traffic in Tbilisi.
“Our protest will last as long as it takes for Georgian Dream to be removed from power,” declared protester Rusiko Dolidze. The rallies have spread across the nation, with significant gatherings in Batumi, Kutaisi, and Zugdidi. A protest is planned for Saturday outside parliament, where Kavelashvili is expected to be elected in a vote boycotted by the opposition.
The legitimacy of Kavelashvili’s appointment is already under scrutiny. Constitutional experts, including Vakhtang Khmaladze, argue that the vote is “illegitimate.” Zurabishvili, who has supported accusations of election rigging, insists on remaining in office until new elections are called. Her popularity among protesters is unwavering, as many view her as a symbol of Georgia’s European aspirations.
“Let them try to evict Salome from the presidential palace — we will all stand to defend her,” vowed protester Otar Turnava. Meanwhile, international criticism mounts over the government’s response to the protests. Police have used tear gas and water cannons, arresting over 400 demonstrators, with accusations of torture emerging.
French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the “intimidation” of civil society and police violence, expressing regret over Georgia’s deviation from its European path. The West’s hesitation to recognize the new government’s legitimacy is evident, with Washington threatening sanctions and Brussels voicing concerns over human rights abuses.
The Georgian Dream party denies fraud allegations and insists on its commitment to EU membership, yet critics argue its actions mirror those of Russia, jeopardizing Georgia’s European future.
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