Georgia's future at crossroads as Kavelashvili takes office
Mikheil Kavelashvili has assumed the presidency of Georgia, nominated as the sole candidate by the ruling Georgian Dream party. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze congratulated Kavelashvili and criticised President Salome Zurabishvili, who has expressed her intention to remain in office. "Salome Zurabishvili is a tragic figure who will leave the presidential palace in two weeks," declared the prime minister.
Prime Minister Kobakhidze, quoted by the Georgian agency Interpressnews, expressed hope that "the election of Kavelashvili will significantly contribute to the strengthening of Georgian statehood and sovereignty." He mentioned that "for over 20 years, Georgia has not had such a patriotic and mentally balanced president," and that Kavelashvili's presidency will be "a turning point for the country."
The inauguration of the new president of Georgia will occur in exactly two weeks, and President Salome Zurabishvili will have to vacate her position, announced the prime minister, as quoted by the Georgian agency Interpressnews.
The head of the government also announced that despite "red lines," Georgia is prepared to do everything possible to become a member of the European Union by 2030.
The newly elected president Mikheil Kavelashvili shares this perspective. We believe that Georgia's entry into the European Union by 2030 is entirely realistic, assured Kobakhidze.
Wave of anti-government protests in Georgia
The prime minister spoke about the decision made on 28th November to suspend talks on Georgia's accession to the EU until 2028, which led to a wave of mass anti-government protests. Demonstrators continue to assemble outside the parliament, which is surrounded by a police cordon.
Salome Zurabishvili, described by the prime minister as a "tragic figure" in a "serious mental state," does not recognise the election results and declares she will not vacate office. Following the announcement of the results, the president addressed the citizens gathered in front of the Orbeliani Palace, saying: "No one chose anyone, nothing happened." She had previously declared that she would not acknowledge the election of the new head of state.
Who is the new president of Georgia?
The 53-year-old Kavelashvili is a seasoned politician and also a former player of the Georgian national football team. He played for both national and international clubs, including Manchester City and FC Basel. Critics allege that the new president lacks higher education.
