Opposition leader welcomes EP resolution, calls for stronger protests

Nika Gvaramia, a leader of the Coalition for Change, has described the European Parliament’s latest resolution on Georgia as one of the most severe and significant political statements ever issued against the ruling Georgian Dream government.

The resolution, passed with an overwhelming majority of 400 votes in favor, calls for sanctions against Bidzina Ivanishvili, the billionaire founder of Georgian Dream, along with his close allies and financial backers. It also declares that the current Georgian government lacks legitimacy and demands new elections.

According to Gvaramia, the resolution is a direct result of nationwide protests, the united efforts of the opposition, NGOs, and independent media.

“This is the harshest resolution imaginable. Now, two things remain: its enforcement in Brussels and the strengthening of protests in Georgia. I am certain that both will happen,” Gvaramia stated.

He emphasized the importance of economic sanctions, particularly from the United States and the United Kingdom, while noting that EU-wide sanctions might face obstacles due to Hungary and Slovakia’s positions. However, he pointed out that individual European countries could take independent action, particularly France, where Ivanishvili holds assets and citizenship.

Gvaramia credited the persistence of the Georgian people, mass protests on Rustaveli Avenue, and coordinated efforts by opposition parties, civil society, and journalists for securing this political victory.

“The role of the media, which was even acknowledged in the European Parliament, cannot be overstated. Together, we made this happen—in the European Parliament, in the Council of Europe, and soon, in Georgia itself,” Gvaramia concluded.