Former footballer and far-right politician Mikheil Kavelashvili was elected as Georgia's new president on Saturday (Dec 14) in an indirect election, termed as "illegitimate" by the current pro-EU (European Union) leader.&nbsp;

Kavelashvili was chosen by the governing Georgian Dream party. He is known for his expletive-laden parliament speeches and controversial statements against government critics and LGBTQ+ people.

Kavelashvili – the only presidential candidate – was chosen amid the ongoing social upheaval as thousands of anti-government protestors have flooded the capital city of Tbilisi for weeks to show their anger against the ruling Georgian Dream for shelving EU accession talks.

Protestors called Kavelashvili a "puppet" of Georgian Dream's founder and billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili. Meanwhile, Ivanishvili has described the newly elected president as "the embodiment of a Georgian man".

Watch |&nbsp;Mass Protest Grips Tbilisi Over Far-Right Presidential Nominee

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The 53-year-old has been making&nbsp;headlines for his comments against the LGBTQ+ community and he once slammed the West for wanting "as many people as possible (to be) neutral and tolerant towards the LGBTQ ideology, which supposedly defends the weak but is, in fact, an act against humanity".&nbsp;

<h2>Early life&nbsp;</h2>

Kavelashvili was born in 1971 in Georgia's Bolnisi town. He began his career as a professional footballer in the 1980s. He started by playing for clubs in Georgia and Russia and later on became a striker for his country's national team.

In 2015, he was disqualified from running for president of the Georgian Football Federation as he lacked the higher education required for the role.

In 2016, he served as an MP for the Georgian Dream and was elected to the legislature on the party's list in the October 2024 polls. However, at the time, the opposition groups alleged that the polls were rigged and refused to recognise it.&nbsp;

In 2022, he, along with other Georgian Dream lawmakers, made an anti-Western group that officially split from the governing party but was widely seen as the ruling party's&nbsp;satellite.

<h2>Oligarch's 'puppet'</h2>

Kavelashvili's nomination has sparked outrage across Georgia.&nbsp;Tens of&nbsp;thousands of Georgians have been&nbsp;protesting for weeks now against the ruling party for&nbsp;drifting from its aim of joining the EU.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-bezos-to-zuckerberg-top-us-ceos-line-up-to-embrace-trump-who-once-they-ditched-783987">From Bezos to Zuckerberg, top US CEOs line up to embrace Trump who once they ditched</a>

Protestors expressed their views on Kavelashvili as one of the protestors told news agency AFP, "I can hardly imagine anyone less suited for the role of head of state".&nbsp;

"Caligula wanted his horse to be a consul, our oligarch wants his puppet Kavelashvili to be a president," he told AFP.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former footballer and far-right politician Mikheil Kavelashvili was elected as Georgia's new president on Saturday (Dec 14) in an indirect election, termed as "illegitimate" by the current pro-EU (European Union) leader.

Former footballer and far-right politician Mikheil Kavelashvili was elected as Georgia's new president on Saturday (Dec 14) in an indirect election, termed as "illegitimate" by the current pro-EU (European Union) leader. Kavelashvili was chosen by the governing Georgian Dream party. He is known for his expletive-laden parliament speeches and controversial statements against government critics and LGBTQ+ people. Kavelashvili – the only presidential candidate – was chosen amid the ongoing social upheaval as thousands of anti-government protestors have flooded the capital city of Tbilisi for weeks to show their anger against the ruling Georgian Dream for shelving EU accession talks. Protestors called Kavelashvili a "puppet" of Georgian Dream's founder and billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili. Meanwhile, Ivanishvili has described the newly elected president as "the embodiment of a Georgian man". Watch | Mass Protest Grips Tbilisi Over Far-Right Presidential Nominee The 53-year-old has been making headlines for his comments against the LGBTQ+ community and he once slammed the West for wanting "as many people as possible (to be) neutral and tolerant towards the LGBTQ ideology, which supposedly defends the weak but is, in fact, an act against humanity". Early life Kavelashvili was born in 1971 in Georgia's Bolnisi town. He began his career as a professional footballer in the 1980s. He started by playing for clubs in Georgia and Russia and later on became a striker for his country's national team. In 2015, he was disqualified from running for president of the Georgian Football Federation as he lacked the higher education required for the role. In 2016, he served as an MP for the Georgian Dream and was elected to the legislature on the party's list in the October 2024 polls. However, at the time, the opposition groups alleged that the polls were rigged and refused to recognise it. In 2022, he, along with other Georgian Dream lawmakers, made an anti-Western group that officially split from the governing party but was widely seen as the ruling party's satellite. Oligarch's 'puppet' Kavelashvili's nomination has sparked outrage across Georgia. Tens of thousands of Georgians have been protesting for weeks now against the ruling party for drifting from its aim of joining the EU. Also read | From Bezos to Zuckerberg, top US CEOs line up to embrace Trump who once they ditched Protestors expressed their views on Kavelashvili as one of the protestors told news agency AFP, "I can hardly imagine anyone less suited for the role of head of state". "Caligula wanted his horse to be a consul, our oligarch wants his puppet Kavelashvili to be a president," he told AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Georgia's new far-right President Mikheil Kavelashvili?

Georgia's ruling party on Saturday installed a far-right loyalist as president in a controversial election process, amid a deepening constitutional crisis and weeks of mass pro-EU protests.

Georgia's ruling party on Saturday installed a far-right loyalist as president in a controversial election process, amid a deepening constitutional crisis and weeks of mass pro-EU protests. The Black Sea nation has been in turmoil since the governing Georgian Dream party claimed victory in contested October parliamentary elections. Its decision last month to delay European Union membership talks ignited a fresh wave of mass rallies. An electoral college, controlled by the ruling Georgian Dream party and boycotted by the opposition, elected Mikheil Kavelashvili with 224 votes as the country's next figurehead leader for a five-year term, central election commission chair Giorgi Kalandarishvili said. The opposition has denounced Saturday's election as "illegitimate" and said the sitting president, Salome Zurabishvili remains the country's sole legitimate leader. Watch | South Korea's President Yoon Faces Second Impeachment Vote Over Controversial Martial Law Decree Pro-Western Zurabishvili -- who is at loggerheads with Georgian Dream -- has refused to step down and is demanding new parliamentary elections, paving the way for a constitutional showdown. On Saturday morning, protesters began gathering outside the parliament building -- which was cordoned off by police -- ahead of a rally scheduled for the evening. An AFP reporter witnessed demonstrators sharing tea to keep warm on a frosty morning, with water cannons parked nearby. "Georgia never loses its sense of humour, celebrating the election of a footballer as president," Zurabishvili wrote on social media. She shared footage of protesters playing football in the snow in a clear jab at Kavelashvili. One of the protesters, 40-year-old Natia Apkhazava, said she arrived early "to protect our European future". "Our (parliamentary) election was rigged. We need new elections," she said. "We have been protesting here for 16 days... and we'll keep fighting for our European future." Protests are scheduled to take place at around a dozen locations in Tbilisi. Thousands of pro-EU demonstrators filled the streets of the capital on Friday, before gathering outside parliament for the 16th consecutive day. A former diplomat, Zurabishvili is a hugely popular figure among protesters, who view her as a beacon of Georgia's European aspirations. 'Unprecedented constitutional crisis' "What will happen in parliament tomorrow is a parody. It will be an event entirely devoid of legitimacy, unconstitutional and illegitimate," Zurabishvili told a press conference on Friday. Opposition groups accuse Georgian Dream of rigging the October 26 parliamentary vote, backsliding on democracy and moving Tbilisi closer to Russia -- all at the expense of the Caucasus nation's constitutionally mandated bid to join the European Union. Kavelashvili, 53 -- the sole candidate for the largely ceremonial post -- is known for his vehement anti-West diatribes and opposition to LGBTQ rights. Georgian Dream scrapped direct presidential elections in 2017. With Zurabishvili refusing to leave office, opposition lawmakers boycotting parliament and protests showing no signs of abating, Kavelashvili is likely to see his presidency undermined from the onset. One author of Georgia's constitution, Vakhtang Khmaladze, has argued that all decisions by the new parliament are void. This is because it ratified the mandates of newly elected lawmakers before the outcome of a court case filed by the incumbent president contesting the elections, he explained. Also read | Watch: Protestors erupt in joy as South Korean lawmakers boot President Yoon out "Georgia is facing an unprecedented constitutional crisis," Khmaladze told AFP. It remains unclear how the government will react to Zurabishvili's refusal to step down after her successor is inaugurated on December 29. Western hesitation Police have fired tear gas and water cannons during more than two weeks of demonstrations and arrested more than 400 protesters, according to the Social Justice Centre NGO. On Friday, Amnesty International said protesters had faced "brutal dispersal tactics, arbitrary detention and torture." There have also been raids on the offices of opposition parties and arrests of their leaders. As international condemnation of the police crackdown mounted, French President Emmanuel Macron told Georgians their "European dream must not be extinguished". Also read | Chemical weapons use in Syria must be investigated, says international watchdog In a video address, he said, "We are by your side in supporting your European and democratic aspirations. " Earlier this week, Macron called Georgian Dream founder Bidzina Ivanishvili -- the tycoon widely considered to be Georgia's real power broker. His decision to call Ivanishvili -- rather than Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze -- is indicative of the West's hesitancy to recognise the legitimacy of Georgian Dream's new government. Washington has also imposed fresh sanctions on Georgian officials, barring visas for around 20 people accused of "undermining democracy in Georgia", including ministers and parliamentarians. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Georgia ruling party installs loyalist president amid constitutional crisis

Pro-European Union protesters take to the streets for the 15th consecutive day in Tbilisi as Georgians rally against the newly elected government they consider illegitimate. The protesters vow not to let up until new elections are held, as French President Emmanuel Macron urged authorities to release arbitrarily arrested demonstrators. Watch in for more details!

Pro-EU Protests in Georgia: Protesters Vow Not To Let Up Until New Elections Are Held

Pro-EU Protests in Georgia: Six Members Of EU Parliament Join Stir To Express Solidarity

Thousands of pro-European protesters rallied against Georgia's government for the 13th consecutive day after the European Union warned it could punish authorities for their crackdown on demonstrators. Watch for more details!

Pro-EU Protests Intensify In Georgia; Demonstrators Gather Outside Parliament To Voice Outrage

Georgia: Thousands Of Pro-EU Protesters Hold Rally; EU Warns Against Crackdown On Protesters

People have taken to the streets in Georgia for the 12th consecutive day of protests against the government's decision to shelve European Union accession talks after disputed elections. Watch for more details!

Georgia Protest: Over 400 People Arrested Since Start Of Second Wave Of Unrest

Demonstrations in Georgia's capital, Tbilisi, have continued for the 11th day, with thousands gathering to express their anger at the government's decision to hold European Union accession talks. Protesters, waving EU flags and chanting pro-European slogans hit the streets outside the Georgian Parliament. Watch for more details!

Georgia Protesters Defiant as Thousands Rally for 11th Day

Georgia Protests: Thousands Protest Georgia's Decision To Halt EU Accession Talks

Pro-EU Protests: Georgian Police Use Water Cannons, Tear Gas On Demonstrators

Mass protests in Georgia fueled by the governing party’s decision to suspend negotiations on joining the European Union entered a second week on Thursday, with police cracking down on the protesters. Watch for more details!

Georgia: Violence Erupts in Tbilisi as Protests Enter Tenth Night

Political unrest continues in the country of Georgia, as opposition parties and their supporters returned for another night of demonstrations against the government's decision to suspend and halt EU membership talks. Watch in for more details!

Georgia Pro-EU Protests Enter Second Week: Over 300 Protesters Arrested, At Least 100 Injured So Far

As hundreds of demonstrators gathered in parliament in the Georgian capital to express their anger at the ruling party's decision to halt talks on entering the European Union, violent riots in Tbilisi continued for the sixth consecutive night. To break up thousands of pro-EU protesters gathered in the Black Sea nation amid a worsening political crisis, Georgian police used tear gas. Police clashed with Georgian protesters after massive agitation broke out after a delay in the nation's EU bid. Police fired water canons and used pepper spray guns at demonstrators. Watch to know more!

Georgian Opposition Figures Arrested As Pro-EU Protests Continue | Race To Power | WION

The United States has denounced the Georgian government's violent suppression of opposition demonstrators threatening further sanctions. The condemnation comes amid ongoing unrest in Tbilisi where thousands of pro-demonstrators have taken to the streets for the seventh consecutive night. Watch to know more!

Georgia Protest: US Condemns Georgia's Brutal Crackdown On Opposition & Pro-EU Protesters

Georgia's prime minister on Tuesday threatened to punish his political opponents, accusing them of being behind the violence at mass protests, as Tbilisi's top court rejected a key lawsuit to annul the result of a contested October vote.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, who infuriated protesters last week by announcing his government would shelve EU accession talks until 2028, also suggested he would take retribution on public servants if they take part in the protests.&nbsp;

Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets on Monday against the ruling Georgian Dream party in a fifth straight night of protests, with more demonstrations planned on Tuesday.&nbsp;

They accuse the government of bringing Tbilisi back into Moscow's orbit and betraying the Black Sea nation's bid for EU membership, which is enshrined in its constitution and supported by around 80 per cent of the population.

Georgia has been gripped by political turmoil since a contested October election, which pro-EU President Salome Zurabishvili and the opposition say Georgian Dream rigged, demanding a re-run.&nbsp;

But, intensifying the crisis, Tbilisi's top court on Tuesday rejected a lawsuit filed by Zurabishvili and opposition parties to overturn the election result.&nbsp;

A re-run of the contested vote was one of the protesters' main demands.

Zurabishvili, who backs the protests and whom Georgian Dream is trying to remove from office, has not yet responded to the court's decision to throw out her case.

That announcement came shortly after Kobakhidze -- who has ruled out talks with the opposition -- vowed to punish his opponents.

"Opposition politicians who have orchestrated the violence in recent days while hiding in their offices will not escape responsibility," he said at a press conference.&nbsp;

The ruling Georgian Dream party has refused to back down despite increasing international criticism of Georgia's handling of its protests, with several Western countries saying Tbilisi had used excessive force.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgian-pm-kobakhidze-says-there-will-be-no-revolution-as-protests-hit-country-781012">Also read:&nbsp;Georgian PM Kobakhidze says there will be 'no revolution' as protests hit country</a>

<h2>Kremlin-style language&nbsp;</h2>

Kobakhidze, 46, also threatened to punish civil servants who joined the protests after several ambassadors and a deputy foreign minister resigned over the demonstration crackdown and his decision to suspend EU talks.&nbsp;

"The process of self-cleansing within the public sector has been very interesting. We are closely monitoring everyone's actions, and they will not go without a response," he said.&nbsp;

Evoking language used by the Kremlin, Kobakhidze alleged the protest movement was "funded from abroad".&nbsp;

He also singled out NGOs -- heavily targeted in a repressive pre-election campaign by authorities -- for being behind the protests, vowing that they will "not evade responsibility as defined by law".&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Georgia Protest: PM Kobakhidze Refuses Negotiations With Oppn

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Tbilisi earlier this year adopted Russian-style legislation designed to restrict the activity of NGOs as well as measures that the EU says curb LGBTQ rights.

The adoption of the laws prompted the US to slap sanctions on Georgian officials.&nbsp;

But Kobakhidze said his government hoped that the "US attitudes towards us will change after January 20"—when Donald Trump, who has criticised federal support for gender transition, takes office.

<h2>'Message is clear'&nbsp;</h2>

Kobakhidze's threats to the opposition came as more Western leaders criticised Tbilisi's police response to the protests.&nbsp;

NATO chief Mark Rutte on Tuesday slammed as "deeply concerning" the situation in Georgia, condemning "unequivocally" the reports of violence.

The mostly young protesters accuse Georgian Dream of acting on Russian orders and fear the ex-Soviet country will end up back under Russian influence.&nbsp;

"We want freedom and we do not want to find ourselves in Russia," 21-year-old protester Nika Maghradze, told AFP.

Georgia's health ministry earlier said that 26 people -- 23 protesters and three law enforcement officers -- were injured in the latest protest on Monday night.&nbsp;&nbsp;

President Zurabishvili has described the protests as Georgians "rising against the Russian puppetry regime".

"The message is clear: Give me my vote back! Give me my European future back!" she had said on social media on Monday.&nbsp;

Some protesters placed their hopes in the 72-year-old president.&nbsp;

"She is our only chance," 43-year-old demonstrator Mariam told AFP on Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Georgia's prime minister on Tuesday threatened to punish his political opponents, accusing them of being behind the violence at mass protests, as Tbilisi's top court rejected a key lawsuit to annul the result of a contested October vote.

Georgia's prime minister on Tuesday threatened to punish his political opponents, accusing them of being behind the violence at mass protests, as Tbilisi's top court rejected a key lawsuit to annul the result of a contested October vote. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, who infuriated protesters last week by announcing his government would shelve EU accession talks until 2028, also suggested he would take retribution on public servants if they take part in the protests. Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets on Monday against the ruling Georgian Dream party in a fifth straight night of protests, with more demonstrations planned on Tuesday. They accuse the government of bringing Tbilisi back into Moscow's orbit and betraying the Black Sea nation's bid for EU membership, which is enshrined in its constitution and supported by around 80 per cent of the population. Georgia has been gripped by political turmoil since a contested October election, which pro-EU President Salome Zurabishvili and the opposition say Georgian Dream rigged, demanding a re-run. But, intensifying the crisis, Tbilisi's top court on Tuesday rejected a lawsuit filed by Zurabishvili and opposition parties to overturn the election result. A re-run of the contested vote was one of the protesters' main demands. Zurabishvili, who backs the protests and whom Georgian Dream is trying to remove from office, has not yet responded to the court's decision to throw out her case. That announcement came shortly after Kobakhidze -- who has ruled out talks with the opposition -- vowed to punish his opponents. "Opposition politicians who have orchestrated the violence in recent days while hiding in their offices will not escape responsibility," he said at a press conference. The ruling Georgian Dream party has refused to back down despite increasing international criticism of Georgia's handling of its protests, with several Western countries saying Tbilisi had used excessive force. Also read: Georgian PM Kobakhidze says there will be 'no revolution' as protests hit country Kremlin-style language Kobakhidze, 46, also threatened to punish civil servants who joined the protests after several ambassadors and a deputy foreign minister resigned over the demonstration crackdown and his decision to suspend EU talks. "The process of self-cleansing within the public sector has been very interesting. We are closely monitoring everyone's actions, and they will not go without a response," he said. Evoking language used by the Kremlin, Kobakhidze alleged the protest movement was "funded from abroad". He also singled out NGOs -- heavily targeted in a repressive pre-election campaign by authorities -- for being behind the protests, vowing that they will "not evade responsibility as defined by law". Watch | Georgia Protest: PM Kobakhidze Refuses Negotiations With Oppn × Tbilisi earlier this year adopted Russian-style legislation designed to restrict the activity of NGOs as well as measures that the EU says curb LGBTQ rights. The adoption of the laws prompted the US to slap sanctions on Georgian officials. But Kobakhidze said his government hoped that the "US attitudes towards us will change after January 20"—when Donald Trump, who has criticised federal support for gender transition, takes office. 'Message is clear' Kobakhidze's threats to the opposition came as more Western leaders criticised Tbilisi's police response to the protests. NATO chief Mark Rutte on Tuesday slammed as "deeply concerning" the situation in Georgia, condemning "unequivocally" the reports of violence. The mostly young protesters accuse Georgian Dream of acting on Russian orders and fear the ex-Soviet country will end up back under Russian influence. "We want freedom and we do not want to find ourselves in Russia," 21-year-old protester Nika Maghradze, told AFP. Georgia's health ministry earlier said that 26 people -- 23 protesters and three law enforcement officers -- were injured in the latest protest on Monday night. President Zurabishvili has described the protests as Georgians "rising against the Russian puppetry regime". "The message is clear: Give me my vote back! Give me my European future back!" she had said on social media on Monday. Some protesters placed their hopes in the 72-year-old president. "She is our only chance," 43-year-old demonstrator Mariam told AFP on Monday. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Georgia PM threatens to punish protesters as court rejects bid to annul vote

Pro- European Union protests in Georgia continue to intensify protesters took to the streets of Tbilisi for a fifth consecutive day. Protesters' are demanding Fair elections they've asserted their right to EU membership and Democratic Values. Watch in for more details!

Georgia Protest: UN Condemns Use Of Disproportionate Force Against Protesters

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze said on Monday (Dec 2) that the violent protests triggered after he announced a halt to negotiations on the country's joining of the European Union, would not bring about a revolution.

"I remind everyone that there will be no revolution in Georgia," Kobakhidze said.

He further accused the opposition of arranging funds for the "Ukraine-style pro-EU uprising" from abroad, and went on to slam the Western countries for not denouncing the "organised violence" staged by the demonstrators the way they were denouncing the strong force deployed by the police in the Black Sea nation.

<h2>Demonstrators launch fireworks at police&nbsp;</h2>

Earlier on Monday,&nbsp;protesters and police clashed in Georgia's capital as resistance to the government's decision to suspend the EU membership talks continues to intensify.

Tensions have been escalating in Georgia after the announcement on Thursday (Nov 28) that the government would stall the EU talks for four years.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tens-of-thousands-head-back-to-streets-in-georgia-over-pro-eu-protests-prez-says-protesters-standing-firm-780917">Tens of thousands head back to streets in Georgia over pro-EU protests, prez says protesters 'standing firm'</a>

The pro-EU demonstrators took to the streets and engaged in skirmishes with the police.

The protesters on Sunday night gathered in Tbilisi and launched fireworks at the police, who retaliated with volleys of water cannons.

This also comes after the governing Georgian Dream party claimed victory in the parliamentary elections held on October 26, which, according to the pro-European opposition, were fraudulent.

Georgia's opposition is boycotting the new parliament, citing concerns over the legitimacy of the elections.

Meanwhile, pro-EU President Salome Zurabishvili asked the constitutional court to nullify the election results, declaring the newly formed government and the new legislature "illegitimate".

As per Eka Beselia, the lawyer representing Zurabishvili, the president wants the court to cancel the results "over widespread violations of voting universality and ballot secrecy".

Her office said in a statement that on Tuesday, she "filed a lawsuit at the Constitutional Court of Georgia, requesting the annulment of the election results as unconstitutional."

(With inputs from agencies)

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze said on Monday (Dec 2) that the violent protests triggered after he announced a halt to negotiations on the country's joining of the European Union, would not bring about a revolution.

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze said on Monday (Dec 2) that the violent protests triggered after he announced a halt to negotiations on the country's joining of the European Union, would not bring about a revolution. "I remind everyone that there will be no revolution in Georgia," Kobakhidze said. He further accused the opposition of arranging funds for the "Ukraine-style pro-EU uprising" from abroad, and went on to slam the Western countries for not denouncing the "organised violence" staged by the demonstrators the way they were denouncing the strong force deployed by the police in the Black Sea nation. Demonstrators launch fireworks at police Earlier on Monday, protesters and police clashed in Georgia's capital as resistance to the government's decision to suspend the EU membership talks continues to intensify. Tensions have been escalating in Georgia after the announcement on Thursday (Nov 28) that the government would stall the EU talks for four years. Also read: Tens of thousands head back to streets in Georgia over pro-EU protests, prez says protesters 'standing firm' The pro-EU demonstrators took to the streets and engaged in skirmishes with the police. The protesters on Sunday night gathered in Tbilisi and launched fireworks at the police, who retaliated with volleys of water cannons. This also comes after the governing Georgian Dream party claimed victory in the parliamentary elections held on October 26, which, according to the pro-European opposition, were fraudulent. Georgia's opposition is boycotting the new parliament, citing concerns over the legitimacy of the elections. Meanwhile, pro-EU President Salome Zurabishvili asked the constitutional court to nullify the election results, declaring the newly formed government and the new legislature "illegitimate". As per Eka Beselia, the lawyer representing Zurabishvili, the president wants the court to cancel the results "over widespread violations of voting universality and ballot secrecy". Her office said in a statement that on Tuesday, she "filed a lawsuit at the Constitutional Court of Georgia, requesting the annulment of the election results as unconstitutional." (With inputs from agencies)

Georgian PM Kobakhidze says there will be 'no revolution' as protests hit country

Thousands are protesting in Tbilisi for a third night after the government put EU accession talks on hold. Watch to know more.

Pro-EU Protest In Georgia: Police Use Rubber Bullets, Tear Gas, Water Cannon On Protesters

Georgia's president said Monday that pro-EU protests involving tens of thousands of people showed no sign of stopping after police fired water cannons and tear gas on a fourth night of demonstrations.

The Black Sea nation has been rocked by turmoil since the governing Georgian Dream party claimed victory on October 26 in parliamentary elections that the pro-European opposition said were fraudulent.

More rallies were planned on Monday and strikes and other protests also started. Ukraine joined countries that have condemned the government crackdown on rallies that have left injuries and arrests.

"Another powerful night of Georgians standing firm to defend their constitution and their European choice," President Salome Zurabishvili posted on X.

"The determination in the streets shows no signs of stopping!" the pro-EU leader wrote.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/demonstrators-launch-fireworks-at-police-in-georgia-as-protests-enter-fourth-day-780804">Also read:&nbsp;Demonstrators launch fireworks at police in Georgia as protests enter fourth day</a>

Troubles deepened after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced Thursday that Georgia was shelving accession talks with the European Union until 2028. There has been a wave of protests in the capital, Tbilisi, and other cities.&nbsp;

Kobakhidze further angered protesters Sunday by ruling out new elections, saying "the formation of the new government based on the October 26 parliamentary elections has been completed".

The opposition is boycotting the new parliament, and Zurabishvili has asked the constitutional court to annul the election result, declaring the new parliament and government "illegitimate".

Critics accuse Georgian Dream, in power for more than a decade, of having steered the country away from the European Union and moving closer to Russia, an accusation it denies.

Russia on Monday defended the crackdown on protesters, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov saying authorities are taking "measures to stabilise" the situation, accusing protesters of trying to "stir up" unrest.

Russia sees "the most direct parallel" with Ukraine's "Maidan" protest that ousted a Kremlin-backed leader in 2014 after he suspended talks on closer EU ties, Peskov said.

Tens of thousands rallied outside parliament in Tbilisi on Sunday waving European and Georgian flags.

Some demonstrators threw fireworks and stones at riot police, while others built barricades from dustbins and set them ablaze.

During the night, riot police moved in using tear gas and water cannon to disperse the crowds.

Dozens have been injured since Thursday, including demonstrators, police and journalists, according to officials and activists, though the exact numbers were unclear.

<h2>'Systematic beatings'&nbsp;</h2>

Zurabishvili said Monday that those detained by police "have been subjected to systematic beatings" after arrest.

The "majority of the arrested protesters have injuries to their heads and faces, broken face bones, eye sockets, open wounds," she said.

The leader of the opposition United National Movement party, Levan Khabeishvili, told journalists he was attacked by around 15 masked police attempting to detain him but managed to escape with the help of protesters.

Watch |&nbsp;Georgia Protests: Violent Protests Erupt In Georgia Again

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The interior ministry said Monday that 21 police personnel were injured.

Some police suffered "dangerous injuries", health minister Mikheil Sarjveladze said, accusing protesters of throwing "heavy metal objects".

The interior ministry said 224 people have been detained during the rallies.

More protest rallies are planned Monday in Tbilisi and other cities, the interior ministry said.

Monday also saw strikes break out in protest at companies and educational institutions, national media reported.

"After universities, it is the turn of schools to express their solidarity with the protests, all over Georgia," Zurabishvili said.

Lasha Matishvili, a 35-year-old sociology professor, told AFP he would go on strike Monday in a "symbolic act of resistance".

Ukraine's foreign ministry said it "strongly condemns" the Georgian government's use of force that would lead to "consequences".

Brussels has not recognised the outcome of the October elections, and demanded an investigation into "serious electoral irregularities".

The European Parliament has called for a re-run and for sanctions against top Georgian officials, including Kobakhidze.

Constitutional law experts have questioned the legitimacy of the new parliament.

Earlier last week, Georgian Dream nominated a far-right former football international, Mikheil Kavelashvili, to replace Zurabishvili in the largely ceremonial post of president.

But Zurabishvili told AFP in an interview on Saturday that she would not step down until new parliamentary elections are held.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Georgia's president said Monday that pro-EU protests involving tens of thousands of people showed no sign of stopping after police fired water cannons and tear gas on a fourth night of demonstrations.

Georgia's president said Monday that pro-EU protests involving tens of thousands of people showed no sign of stopping after police fired water cannons and tear gas on a fourth night of demonstrations. The Black Sea nation has been rocked by turmoil since the governing Georgian Dream party claimed victory on October 26 in parliamentary elections that the pro-European opposition said were fraudulent. More rallies were planned on Monday and strikes and other protests also started. Ukraine joined countries that have condemned the government crackdown on rallies that have left injuries and arrests. "Another powerful night of Georgians standing firm to defend their constitution and their European choice," President Salome Zurabishvili posted on X. "The determination in the streets shows no signs of stopping!" the pro-EU leader wrote. Also read: Demonstrators launch fireworks at police in Georgia as protests enter fourth day Troubles deepened after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced Thursday that Georgia was shelving accession talks with the European Union until 2028. There has been a wave of protests in the capital, Tbilisi, and other cities. Kobakhidze further angered protesters Sunday by ruling out new elections, saying "the formation of the new government based on the October 26 parliamentary elections has been completed". The opposition is boycotting the new parliament, and Zurabishvili has asked the constitutional court to annul the election result, declaring the new parliament and government "illegitimate". Critics accuse Georgian Dream, in power for more than a decade, of having steered the country away from the European Union and moving closer to Russia, an accusation it denies. Russia on Monday defended the crackdown on protesters, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov saying authorities are taking "measures to stabilise" the situation, accusing protesters of trying to "stir up" unrest. Russia sees "the most direct parallel" with Ukraine's "Maidan" protest that ousted a Kremlin-backed leader in 2014 after he suspended talks on closer EU ties, Peskov said. Tens of thousands rallied outside parliament in Tbilisi on Sunday waving European and Georgian flags. Some demonstrators threw fireworks and stones at riot police, while others built barricades from dustbins and set them ablaze. During the night, riot police moved in using tear gas and water cannon to disperse the crowds. Dozens have been injured since Thursday, including demonstrators, police and journalists, according to officials and activists, though the exact numbers were unclear. 'Systematic beatings' Zurabishvili said Monday that those detained by police "have been subjected to systematic beatings" after arrest. The "majority of the arrested protesters have injuries to their heads and faces, broken face bones, eye sockets, open wounds," she said. The leader of the opposition United National Movement party, Levan Khabeishvili, told journalists he was attacked by around 15 masked police attempting to detain him but managed to escape with the help of protesters. Watch | Georgia Protests: Violent Protests Erupt In Georgia Again × The interior ministry said Monday that 21 police personnel were injured. Some police suffered "dangerous injuries", health minister Mikheil Sarjveladze said, accusing protesters of throwing "heavy metal objects". The interior ministry said 224 people have been detained during the rallies. More protest rallies are planned Monday in Tbilisi and other cities, the interior ministry said. Monday also saw strikes break out in protest at companies and educational institutions, national media reported. "After universities, it is the turn of schools to express their solidarity with the protests, all over Georgia," Zurabishvili said. Lasha Matishvili, a 35-year-old sociology professor, told AFP he would go on strike Monday in a "symbolic act of resistance". Ukraine's foreign ministry said it "strongly condemns" the Georgian government's use of force that would lead to "consequences". Brussels has not recognised the outcome of the October elections, and demanded an investigation into "serious electoral irregularities". The European Parliament has called for a re-run and for sanctions against top Georgian officials, including Kobakhidze. Constitutional law experts have questioned the legitimacy of the new parliament. Earlier last week, Georgian Dream nominated a far-right former football international, Mikheil Kavelashvili, to replace Zurabishvili in the largely ceremonial post of president. But Zurabishvili told AFP in an interview on Saturday that she would not step down until new parliamentary elections are held. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tens of thousands head back to streets in Georgia over pro-EU protests, prez says protesters 'standing firm'

Protesters and police clashed in Georgia's capital on Monday (Dec 2) as resistance to the government's decision to suspend the European Union (EU) membership talks continues to intensify.

This was the fourth straight day of the protests, with the police saying 21 of its personnel were injured.

Tensions have been escalating in Georgia after the announcement on Thursday (Nov 28) that the government would stall the EU talks for four years.

After this, the pro-EU demonstrators took to the streets and engaged in skirmishes with the police.

The protesters on Sunday night (Dec 1) gathered in Tbilisi again and launched fireworks at the police, who retaliated with volleys of water cannons.

This also comes after the governing Georgian Dream party claimed victory in the parliamentary elections held on October 26, which, according to the pro-European opposition, were&nbsp;fraudulent.

Georgia's opposition is boycotting the new parliament, citing concerns over the legitimacy of the recent elections, meanwhile, pro-EU President Salome Zurabishvili has asked the constitutional court to nullify the election results, declaring the newly formed government and the new legislature "illegitimate".

As per Eka Beselia, the lawyer representing Zurabishvili in the court, the president wants the court to cancel the results "over widespread violations of voting universality and ballot secrecy".

Her office said in a statement that on Tuesday, she "filed a lawsuit at the Constitutional Court of Georgia, requesting the annulment of the election results as unconstitutional."

According to the interior ministry, over 150 protesters have been arrested; however, the Georgian Young Lawyers' Association claims the number to be 200.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-white-house-not-there-yet-on-ceasefire-hostage-deal-says-us-nsa-780691">Israel-Hamas war: White House not there yet on ceasefire, hostage deal, says US NSA</a>

<h2>Protesters call results 'fake victory'</h2>

"We will never accept the rigged election (result)," said one of the demonstrators, 20-year-old university student Natela Gabiskiria.

"We support Zurabishvili's demand that the constitutional court annul Georgian Dream's fake (electoral) victory," she told news agency AFP.

The leader of the opposition Akhali party, Nika Gvaramia, stated that his party members "have been detained and injured. Party activists have been beaten and arrested."

Amnesty International urged the Georgian authorities "to fully comply with their obligations to respect and protect the right to freedom of assembly."&nbsp;

"People have a right to peacefully protest without fear of violence, intimidation, or unlawful arrests" the group released a statement saying.

"All peaceful protesters who remain in detention must be immediately released," the statement said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Protesters and police clashed in Georgia's capital on Monday (Dec 2) as resistance to the government's decision to suspend the European Union (EU) membership talks continues to intensify.

Protesters and police clashed in Georgia's capital on Monday (Dec 2) as resistance to the government's decision to suspend the European Union (EU) membership talks continues to intensify. This was the fourth straight day of the protests, with the police saying 21 of its personnel were injured. Tensions have been escalating in Georgia after the announcement on Thursday (Nov 28) that the government would stall the EU talks for four years. After this, the pro-EU demonstrators took to the streets and engaged in skirmishes with the police. The protesters on Sunday night (Dec 1) gathered in Tbilisi again and launched fireworks at the police, who retaliated with volleys of water cannons. This also comes after the governing Georgian Dream party claimed victory in the parliamentary elections held on October 26, which, according to the pro-European opposition, were fraudulent. Georgia's opposition is boycotting the new parliament, citing concerns over the legitimacy of the recent elections, meanwhile, pro-EU President Salome Zurabishvili has asked the constitutional court to nullify the election results, declaring the newly formed government and the new legislature "illegitimate". As per Eka Beselia, the lawyer representing Zurabishvili in the court, the president wants the court to cancel the results "over widespread violations of voting universality and ballot secrecy". Her office said in a statement that on Tuesday, she "filed a lawsuit at the Constitutional Court of Georgia, requesting the annulment of the election results as unconstitutional." According to the interior ministry, over 150 protesters have been arrested; however, the Georgian Young Lawyers' Association claims the number to be 200. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: White House not there yet on ceasefire, hostage deal, says US NSA Protesters call results 'fake victory' "We will never accept the rigged election (result)," said one of the demonstrators, 20-year-old university student Natela Gabiskiria. "We support Zurabishvili's demand that the constitutional court annul Georgian Dream's fake (electoral) victory," she told news agency AFP. The leader of the opposition Akhali party, Nika Gvaramia, stated that his party members "have been detained and injured. Party activists have been beaten and arrested." Amnesty International urged the Georgian authorities "to fully comply with their obligations to respect and protect the right to freedom of assembly." "People have a right to peacefully protest without fear of violence, intimidation, or unlawful arrests" the group released a statement saying. "All peaceful protesters who remain in detention must be immediately released," the statement said. (With inputs from agencies)

Demonstrators launch fireworks at police in Georgia as protests enter fourth day

Thousands gathered in Tbilisi to protest against the government's decision to suspend accession talks with the European Union. Demonstrators were seen shouting "traitors" and holding photographs of journalists who they say were beaten by police. Earlier more than 100 diplomats and civil servants signed an open letter accusing the government of not aligning with Georgia's strategic interests. Watch in for more details!

Georgia: Protests Erupt After Government Suspends EU Accession Talks

Police in&nbsp;Georgia&nbsp;arrested dozens of people overnight and early Friday in a violent crackdown on protests against the government's decision to delay EU membership talks.

The Black Sea nation has been rocked by turmoil since the ruling party declared victory in October parliamentary elections that the pro-EU opposition decried as falsified.

On Thursday night and Friday morning, riot police fired rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannons to disperse gatherings outside parliament in Tbilisi, beating peaceful protesters and journalists, an AFP reporter witnessed.

The interior ministry said 32 of its staff were injured and "43 individuals were detained by law enforcement for disobeying lawful police orders and for petty hooliganism".

Thousands of people took to the streets after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze of the ruling Georgian Dream party shelved plans to pursue membership of the European Union until 2028.

The opposition has accused Georgian Dream of steering Tbilisi away from its long-held dream of joining the bloc and gravitating towards Russia.

Two politicians from the opposition Coalition for Change, Elene Khoshtaria and Nana Malashkhia, were reportedly injured during the protests.

Khoshtaria sustained a broken arm, while Malashkhia suffered a broken nose, the coalition said.

Prominent poet Zviad Ratiani was among those arrested, the PEN Writers' association in Georgia said, demanding his immediate release.

Ukraine said Friday it was "disappointed" by Tbilisi's decision to pause EU accession talks, accusing the Georgian government of trying to "please Moscow".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgia-president-challenges-election-verdict-in-court-amid-heavy-protests-777497">Also read:&nbsp;Georgia president challenges election verdict in court amid heavy protests</a>

<h2>Post-election crisis&nbsp;</h2>

Opposition lawmakers are boycotting the new parliament, while Georgia's pro-EU president Salome Zurabishvili has sought to annul the election results through the country's constitutional court.

The prime minister's announcement to delay EU accession came hours after the European Parliament adopted a non-binding resolution rejecting the results of Georgia's October 26 elections, alleging "significant irregularities".

The resolution called for a new vote within a year under international supervision and for sanctions to be imposed on top Georgian officials, including Prime Minister Kobakhidze.

Accusing the European Parliament of "blackmail", Kobakhidze said: "We have decided not to bring up the issue of joining the European Union on the agenda until the end of 2028."

Watch |&nbsp;Georgia Ruling Party Names Presidential Candidate

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But he pledged to continue implementing reforms, adding: "By 2028, Georgia will be more prepared than any other candidate country to open accession talks with Brussels and become a member state in 2030."

On Thursday, Georgian Dream MPs voted unanimously for Kobakhidze to continue as prime minister.

But constitutional law experts say any decisions made by the new parliament are invalid because it is still awaiting a court ruling on Zurabishvili's bid to annul the election results.

On Wednesday, the ruling party nominated far-right politician and former football international Mikheil Kavelashvili for the largely ceremonial post of president, further ratcheting up tensions.

The former Soviet country officially gained EU candidate status in December 2023, an aspiration that is supported by 80 per cent of the population, according to polling.

But earlier this year Brussels froze Georgia's accession process, citing the need for Tbilisi to address what it says is democratic backsliding.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Police in Georgia arrested dozens of people overnight and early Friday in a violent crackdown on protests against the government's decision to delay EU membership talks.

Police in Georgia arrested dozens of people overnight and early Friday in a violent crackdown on protests against the government's decision to delay EU membership talks. The Black Sea nation has been rocked by turmoil since the ruling party declared victory in October parliamentary elections that the pro-EU opposition decried as falsified. On Thursday night and Friday morning, riot police fired rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannons to disperse gatherings outside parliament in Tbilisi, beating peaceful protesters and journalists, an AFP reporter witnessed. The interior ministry said 32 of its staff were injured and "43 individuals were detained by law enforcement for disobeying lawful police orders and for petty hooliganism". Thousands of people took to the streets after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze of the ruling Georgian Dream party shelved plans to pursue membership of the European Union until 2028. The opposition has accused Georgian Dream of steering Tbilisi away from its long-held dream of joining the bloc and gravitating towards Russia. Two politicians from the opposition Coalition for Change, Elene Khoshtaria and Nana Malashkhia, were reportedly injured during the protests. Khoshtaria sustained a broken arm, while Malashkhia suffered a broken nose, the coalition said. Prominent poet Zviad Ratiani was among those arrested, the PEN Writers' association in Georgia said, demanding his immediate release. Ukraine said Friday it was "disappointed" by Tbilisi's decision to pause EU accession talks, accusing the Georgian government of trying to "please Moscow". Also read: Georgia president challenges election verdict in court amid heavy protests Post-election crisis Opposition lawmakers are boycotting the new parliament, while Georgia's pro-EU president Salome Zurabishvili has sought to annul the election results through the country's constitutional court. The prime minister's announcement to delay EU accession came hours after the European Parliament adopted a non-binding resolution rejecting the results of Georgia's October 26 elections, alleging "significant irregularities". The resolution called for a new vote within a year under international supervision and for sanctions to be imposed on top Georgian officials, including Prime Minister Kobakhidze. Accusing the European Parliament of "blackmail", Kobakhidze said: "We have decided not to bring up the issue of joining the European Union on the agenda until the end of 2028." Watch | Georgia Ruling Party Names Presidential Candidate × But he pledged to continue implementing reforms, adding: "By 2028, Georgia will be more prepared than any other candidate country to open accession talks with Brussels and become a member state in 2030." On Thursday, Georgian Dream MPs voted unanimously for Kobakhidze to continue as prime minister. But constitutional law experts say any decisions made by the new parliament are invalid because it is still awaiting a court ruling on Zurabishvili's bid to annul the election results. On Wednesday, the ruling party nominated far-right politician and former football international Mikheil Kavelashvili for the largely ceremonial post of president, further ratcheting up tensions. The former Soviet country officially gained EU candidate status in December 2023, an aspiration that is supported by 80 per cent of the population, according to polling. But earlier this year Brussels froze Georgia's accession process, citing the need for Tbilisi to address what it says is democratic backsliding. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Georgia: Dozens arrested as pro-EU protesters clash with police

Georgia's billionaire political power broker Bidzina Ivanishvili has introduced a Euroskeptic former soccer player as his ruling party's nominee for a disputed presidential vote next month, despite mounting constitutional disagreements and a post-parliamentary election boycott in the Caucasus nation

Georgia Ruling Party Names Presidential Candidate

Georgia's ruling party on Wednesday nominated far-right politician, former football international Mikheil Kavelashvili for the largely ceremonial post of president, aiming to strengthen its grip on power.

Georgia's ruling party on Wednesday nominated far-right politician, former football international Mikheil Kavelashvili for the largely ceremonial post of president, aiming to strengthen its grip on power. The Black Sea nation has been rocked by turmoil since disputed parliamentary elections on October 26 that saw the Georgian Dream party secure a new majority. Alleging the vote was rigged, opposition lawmakers have boycotted the new parliament. Sitting President Salome Zurabishvili has declared the new legislature "unconstitutional" and is seeking to annul the election results. Georgian Dream -- which has been accused of democratic backsliding and moving Tbilisi away from Europe and closer to Moscow -- denies allegations of electoral fraud. Also read | Anti-mine treaty signatories slam US decision to send landmines to Ukraine Despite the boycott, Georgian Dream MPs voted Tuesday to elect the new president on December 14 -- in a move denounced by constitutional law experts as illegal. "Our team has unanimously decided to nominate Mikheil Kavelashvili for the post of the country's president," the party's honorary chairman Bidzina Ivanishvili told a news conference. "By his nature and habitus, he is the embodiment of a Georgian man," he added. Ivanishvili, Georgia's richest man, does not hold any official government position but is widely believed to pull the strings of power in his country. Constitutional law experts say that decisions taken by the new parliament are invalid as there has been no ruling yet on Zurabishvili's move to have the results of the October election annulled. Foregone conclusion "I will do everything to unite Georgian society around our national interests, our national identity, our values, and the idea of Georgia's independence," Kavelashvili told journalists. The 53-year-old father of four is a former football star who moved into politics in 2016, becoming an MP on Georgian Dream's party list. He left Georgian Dream in 2022 and co-founded the far-right People's Power party, widely seen as a satellite of the ruling party. Also read | Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire deal: What we know about it From 1995 to 2006, he played as a striker in the Premier League with Manchester City and the Swiss Super League, playing for Grasshoppers, Zürich, Luzern, Sion, Aarau, and Basel. Under constitutional changes pushed through by Georgian Dream in 2017, the president will for the first time be chosen by an electoral college instead of a popular vote. The new process makes it a foregone conclusion that a Georgian Dream loyalist will be the next president, with Zurabishvili -- at loggerheads with the ruling party -- set to lose office. The parliament said the new leader's inauguration for a five-year term would take place on December 29. The constitutional reform has also further reduced the powers of the next leader. The president will remain head of state, commander-in-chief, and Georgia's official representative on the world stage, but will no longer be entitled to conduct negotiations with foreign countries or declare martial law without the prime minister's approval. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Far-right ex-footballer tapped as Georgia's next president

Georgia's opposition parties have boycotted the first session of parliament following the recent elections, citing concerns over the legitimacy of the polls and alleged electoral irregularities. The boycott underscores the ongoing political tensions in the country, with opposition leaders challenging the results and calling for reforms.

Georgia: Opposition Boycotts First Parliament Session Since Polls

Georgia's new parliament convened for its first session on Monday amid protests over an election. Opposition challenges legitimacy as the ruling Georgian Dream secures a majority. Watch this report for more details!

Georgia's New Parliament Convenes After Contested Vote

A fresh wave of protests has erupted in Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, as demonstrators take to the streets over political tensions and government policies. The protests have sparked clashes with police, highlighting growing unrest in the country.

Georgia: Fresh Wave Of Protest Breaks Out In Capital Tbilisi

Thousands rallied in Georgia on Tuesday in support of President Salome Zurabishvili's lawsuit to annul last month's parliamentary election result, which the pro-Western opposition denounced as rigged in favour of the ruling party.

The rally came hours after police violently dismantled a sit-in protest outside Tbilisi State University, where dozens of demonstrators had set up tents and blocked traffic in protest against the contested vote.

The European Union and the United States have called for a probe into the "irregularities" during the October 26 election, won by the governing Georgian Dream party.

The opposition says the government is skewing the Caucasus country's foreign policy towards Russia and derailing its path to joining the European Union, an accusation Georgian Dream denies.

Pro-Western president Zurabishvili -- who is at loggerheads with Georgian Dream -- has called the vote illegitimate and accused Russia of interference, a claim Moscow has denied.

On Tuesday, she "filed a lawsuit at the Constitutional Court of Georgia, requesting the annulment of the election results as unconstitutional", her office said in a statement.

Zurabishvili wants the court to cancel the results "over widespread violations of voting universality and ballot secrecy", said Eka Beselia, the lawyer representing the president in the court.

On Tuesday evening, several thousand demonstrators gathered outside Tbilisi State University, where police had earlier violently dispersed dozens of anti-government demonstrators.

Addressing the crowd, opposition leaders called for round-the-clock permanent rallies.

<h2>'Fake victory'</h2>

"We will never accept the rigged election (result)," said one of the demonstrators, 20-year-old university student Natela Gabiskiria.

"We support Zurabishvili's demand that the constitutional court annul Georgian Dream's fake (electoral) victory," she told AFP.

Since the vote, tens of thousands have taken to the streets in Tbilisi to protest against alleged electoral fraud.

Pro-Western opposition parties have refused to recognise the election result or enter the newly elected parliament, which they deem "illegitimate".

Zurabishvili has joined the opposition's calls for a new vote and has refused to issue a decree to convene the new parliament.

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, of Georgian Dream, has insisted the elections were free and fair and said parliament would convene Monday even without a presidential summons.

But a leading constitutional law expert, Vakhushti Menabde, said on social media Tuesday that the "new parliament can't convene until the constitutional court delivers its ruling on Zurabishvili's lawsuit".

The court has one month to deliver its judgement.

<h2>Protesters beaten</h2>

Early Tuesday, massed police, some wearing masks, beat and forcefully dragged away journalists and protesters holding Georgian and EU flags outside Tbilisi State University, an AFP photographer witnessed.

The Interior Ministry reported that 16 people were arrested for "disobeying police", with three detainees later released.

The leader of the opposition Akhali party, Nika Gvaramia, said members of his party "have been detained and injured. Party activists have been beaten and arrested."

Ahead of the crackdown, the interior ministry urged protesters to disperse, saying "freedom of assembly and expression does not include the right to deliberately disrupt road traffic".

The opposition has announced a new mass rally for when the new legislature holds its first session.

Amnesty International called on the Georgian authorities "to fully comply with their obligations to respect and protect the right to freedom of assembly."&nbsp;

"People have a right to peacefully protest without fear of violence, intimidation, or unlawful arrests" the group said in a statement, adding that "all peaceful protesters who remain in detention must be immediately released."

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said Monday that the bloc "will send a mission to Georgia... and the election will have to be investigated".

"The EU will never abandon you and your fight for EU values," he said in a statement after a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council.

Ahead of the elections, Brussels warned Tbilisi that the conduct of the vote would be decisive for its prospects of joining&nbsp;the&nbsp;bloc.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Thousands rallied in Georgia on Tuesday in support of President Salome Zurabishvili's lawsuit to annul last month's parliamentary election result, which the pro-Western opposition denounced as rigged in favour of the ruling party.

Thousands rallied in Georgia on Tuesday in support of President Salome Zurabishvili's lawsuit to annul last month's parliamentary election result, which the pro-Western opposition denounced as rigged in favour of the ruling party. The rally came hours after police violently dismantled a sit-in protest outside Tbilisi State University, where dozens of demonstrators had set up tents and blocked traffic in protest against the contested vote. The European Union and the United States have called for a probe into the "irregularities" during the October 26 election, won by the governing Georgian Dream party. The opposition says the government is skewing the Caucasus country's foreign policy towards Russia and derailing its path to joining the European Union, an accusation Georgian Dream denies. Pro-Western president Zurabishvili -- who is at loggerheads with Georgian Dream -- has called the vote illegitimate and accused Russia of interference, a claim Moscow has denied. On Tuesday, she "filed a lawsuit at the Constitutional Court of Georgia, requesting the annulment of the election results as unconstitutional", her office said in a statement. Zurabishvili wants the court to cancel the results "over widespread violations of voting universality and ballot secrecy", said Eka Beselia, the lawyer representing the president in the court. On Tuesday evening, several thousand demonstrators gathered outside Tbilisi State University, where police had earlier violently dispersed dozens of anti-government demonstrators. Addressing the crowd, opposition leaders called for round-the-clock permanent rallies. 'Fake victory' "We will never accept the rigged election (result)," said one of the demonstrators, 20-year-old university student Natela Gabiskiria. "We support Zurabishvili's demand that the constitutional court annul Georgian Dream's fake (electoral) victory," she told AFP. Since the vote, tens of thousands have taken to the streets in Tbilisi to protest against alleged electoral fraud. Pro-Western opposition parties have refused to recognise the election result or enter the newly elected parliament, which they deem "illegitimate". Zurabishvili has joined the opposition's calls for a new vote and has refused to issue a decree to convene the new parliament. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, of Georgian Dream, has insisted the elections were free and fair and said parliament would convene Monday even without a presidential summons. But a leading constitutional law expert, Vakhushti Menabde, said on social media Tuesday that the "new parliament can't convene until the constitutional court delivers its ruling on Zurabishvili's lawsuit". The court has one month to deliver its judgement. Protesters beaten Early Tuesday, massed police, some wearing masks, beat and forcefully dragged away journalists and protesters holding Georgian and EU flags outside Tbilisi State University, an AFP photographer witnessed. The Interior Ministry reported that 16 people were arrested for "disobeying police", with three detainees later released. The leader of the opposition Akhali party, Nika Gvaramia, said members of his party "have been detained and injured. Party activists have been beaten and arrested." Ahead of the crackdown, the interior ministry urged protesters to disperse, saying "freedom of assembly and expression does not include the right to deliberately disrupt road traffic". The opposition has announced a new mass rally for when the new legislature holds its first session. Amnesty International called on the Georgian authorities "to fully comply with their obligations to respect and protect the right to freedom of assembly." "People have a right to peacefully protest without fear of violence, intimidation, or unlawful arrests" the group said in a statement, adding that "all peaceful protesters who remain in detention must be immediately released." EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said Monday that the bloc "will send a mission to Georgia... and the election will have to be investigated". "The EU will never abandon you and your fight for EU values," he said in a statement after a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council. Ahead of the elections, Brussels warned Tbilisi that the conduct of the vote would be decisive for its prospects of joining the bloc. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Georgia president challenges election verdict in court amid heavy protests

Police broke up an opposition camp in the center of Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, and began detaining protesters demanding new parliamentary elections. Watch this report for more details!

Georgia Police Arrests, Detains Several Protestors Amid Political Turmoil

Georgia: Opposition Parties, Supporters Protest in Capital Tbilisi

Head of Georgia's Central Election Commission (CEC) Giorgi Kalandarishvili on Saturday (Nov 16) was drenched in black paint after Georgian opposition politician Davit Kirtadze threw it at him during a meeting as he was about to validate results of parliamentary elections held last month.

The elections have led to weeks of protests by the opposition amid accusations of widespread fraud and Russian interference.&nbsp;

The protesters gathered outside the commission's building in Tbilisi, where officials announced that the ruling Georgian Dream party had won 53.93 per cent of the vote.

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Black ruZZian…. 
 
Georgian oppositionist David Kirtadze poured black paint on the head of the country's Central Election Commission, Giorgi Kalandarishvili, accusing him of falsifying the elections and of selling out to ruZZia. 
<a href="https://t.co/zgZ3cA1Q6w">pic.twitter.com/zgZ3cA1Q6w</a>
— Claretta Nijhuis (@NijhuisClaretta) <a href="https://twitter.com/NijhuisClaretta/status/1857764203118968945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The opposition supporters have called the vote 'rigged' and have rejected the results. However, the Georgian Dream denied the accusation.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgias-ruling-dream-party-wins-majority-with-70-of-precincts-counted-771016">Also read:&nbsp;Georgia's ruling Dream party wins majority with 70% of precincts counted</a>

The session on Saturday was interrupted when Kirtadze, a commission member from the opposition United National Movement party, threw black paint at Kalandarishvili.

Prior to that, the opposition member told the CEC that the official results of the vote did not reflect voters’ “true choice”.&nbsp;

However, Kalandarishvili responded by saying that the use of “pressure, bullying, and personal insults” proved that there was no evidence of vote rigging.

Later, as the meeting resumed, Kalandarishvili was seen with a bandaged eye.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Georgia: Thousands Of Opposition Supporters Protest Outside Parliament

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“It once again becomes evident that there is no tangible proof indicating that the elections were manipulated,” he told the audience.

Moreover, many Georgians saw the vote as a pivotal referendum on the country's effort to join the European Union.&nbsp;

Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili also rejected the official results and said that Tbilisi has fallen victim to pressure from Moscow against joining the EU.&nbsp;

Following this, the officials in the United States, and Belgium asked for a full investigation of the elections.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Kremlin rejected the accusations of interference.&nbsp;

The Georgian Central Electoral Commission on Saturday said that the Russia-friendly Georgian Dream party won 53.93 per cent of the vote, against 37.79 per cent garnered by an alliance of pro-Western opposition parties.

(With inputs from agencies)

Head of Georgia's Central Election Commission (CEC) Giorgi Kalandarishvili on Saturday (Nov 16) was drenched in black paint after Georgian opposition politician Davit Kirtadze threw it at him during a meeting as he was about to validate results of parliamentary elections held last month.

Head of Georgia's Central Election Commission (CEC) Giorgi Kalandarishvili on Saturday (Nov 16) was drenched in black paint after Georgian opposition politician Davit Kirtadze threw it at him during a meeting as he was about to validate results of parliamentary elections held last month. The elections have led to weeks of protests by the opposition amid accusations of widespread fraud and Russian interference. The protesters gathered outside the commission's building in Tbilisi, where officials announced that the ruling Georgian Dream party had won 53.93 per cent of the vote. Black ruZZian…. Georgian oppositionist David Kirtadze poured black paint on the head of the country's Central Election Commission, Giorgi Kalandarishvili, accusing him of falsifying the elections and of selling out to ruZZia. pic.twitter.com/zgZ3cA1Q6w — Claretta Nijhuis (@NijhuisClaretta) November 16, 2024 × The opposition supporters have called the vote 'rigged' and have rejected the results. However, the Georgian Dream denied the accusation. Also read: Georgia's ruling Dream party wins majority with 70% of precincts counted The session on Saturday was interrupted when Kirtadze, a commission member from the opposition United National Movement party, threw black paint at Kalandarishvili. Prior to that, the opposition member told the CEC that the official results of the vote did not reflect voters’ “true choice”. However, Kalandarishvili responded by saying that the use of “pressure, bullying, and personal insults” proved that there was no evidence of vote rigging. Later, as the meeting resumed, Kalandarishvili was seen with a bandaged eye. Watch | Georgia: Thousands Of Opposition Supporters Protest Outside Parliament × “It once again becomes evident that there is no tangible proof indicating that the elections were manipulated,” he told the audience. Moreover, many Georgians saw the vote as a pivotal referendum on the country's effort to join the European Union. Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili also rejected the official results and said that Tbilisi has fallen victim to pressure from Moscow against joining the EU. Following this, the officials in the United States, and Belgium asked for a full investigation of the elections. Meanwhile, the Kremlin rejected the accusations of interference. The Georgian Central Electoral Commission on Saturday said that the Russia-friendly Georgian Dream party won 53.93 per cent of the vote, against 37.79 per cent garnered by an alliance of pro-Western opposition parties. (With inputs from agencies)

Georgia parliamentary polls: Election chief doused in black paint as opposition alleges rigging. Watch

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