Mikheil Kavelashvili was inaugurated as the new president of Georgia on December 29, 2023, marking the beginning of his presidency amid significant political unrest and protests by supporters of the former president, Salome Zourabichvili. The ceremony was broadcasted on the country’s parliament website, where Kavelashvili took his oath on the Bible and the Constitution.
The outgoing president, Zourabichvili, left the presidential palace on Orbeliani Square and addressed her supporters, expressing her refusal to accept the legitimacy of Kavelashvili's election. "I will go out with you and remain with you. I carry with me legitimacy, the flag, and your trust," she declared, emphatically challenging the new president's authority.
Following her departure, Zourabichvili characterized the inauguration of Kavelashvili as a "parody" and urged citizens to prepare for early parliamentary elections. During her address, she voiced deep concerns about the direction the country was heading, criticizing the ruling party and calling for unity among opposition forces. "Elections will happen—there's no other way, and this is the only solution to all such crises," she stated.
The backdrop to this contentious transition is rooted in deep-seated political dissatisfaction following the recent presidential election, which Zourabichvili and the opposition do not recognize. Protests started rolling across Georgia after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced delays on the country's path to joining the European Union until 2028, igniting anger among citizens who advocate for closer ties with the EU.
Support for Zourabichvili has been vocal, with many asserting her legitimacy as the rightful leader, creating palpable tensions between her supporters and those backing Kavelashvili. According to reports, the opposition promised physical support to Zourabichvili if necessary, reflecting the high stakes involved as Georgia navigates this turbulent political climate.
During his inaugural speech, Kavelashvili emphasized national unity, stating, "Our historical people have fought for their homeland and honor—and today, we stand committed to these values." He underscored the importance of family and tradition as cornerstones of Georgian identity, echoing sentiments of resilience and solidarity.
Despite Kavelashvili's reiteration of unity and strength, the political scene remains fraught with discord. Many viewed the transfer of power as rapid and devoid of dramatic confrontation, contrary to the expectations of radical opposition supporters who had anticipated significant resistance. Observers noted the absence of severe conflict, where Zourabichvili's voluntary exit stood out as noteworthy.
Looking forward, the future of Georgia hangs on Kavelashvili's administration as well as Zourabichvili's efforts to galvanize support for fresh parliamentary elections. Zourabichvili has stated, "I will work to create conditions for new elections with everyone involved, so we could very soon draft documents requesting elections." She advocates for authentic democratic practices, stressing the necessity of being prepared not just to demand elections, but to have viable political alternatives ready.
The political standoff reflects broader regional issues, including concerns over the influence of foreign powers like Russia, as Zourabichvili warned about the dangers her country faces from external pressures, reinforcing her role as symbolic of resistance amid unrest.
Overall, Kavelashvili’s presidency opens with challenges, as the government must navigate widespread discontent and challenge from the former president. The legitimacy of this transition will be critically assessed by the populace and will determine the course of political stability—or instability—going forward. With calls for elections and protests continuing, the new administration has its work cut out to gain the trust of its citizens and legitimize its governance.
With uncertainty looming, how Kavelashvili addresses these internal challenges will be pivotal for his presidency and Georgia’s future as a young democracy seeking its path on the international stage.