Salome Zourabichvili: “What’s happening in Parliament is parody, insult to our traditions and institutions”

President of Georgia Salome Zourabichvili criticized the parliamentary session scheduled for December 14 to elect the future president. She called it a parody devoid of legitimacy and constitutionality. Speaking at a briefing, Zourabichvili stated that the process disrespects Georgia’s history, traditions, and institutions, provoking public reaction.

“This event lacks legitimacy and constitutional basis. It’s a provocation of public sentiment and an insult to everything—our past, traditions, and culture. The way independent state institutions, including Parliament, are being treated is unacceptable,” Zourabichvili said.

The President referred to recent political maneuvers, such as the movement of People’s Power members in and out of the ruling party, Georgian Dream, as further evidence of the lack of serious political processes in the country. “This has nothing to do with a genuine political process anymore. It’s a parody that has turned our state into a caricature, which is deeply offensive to all of us,” she added.

Zourabichvili praised the growing protests across the country, describing them as a nationwide expression of solidarity and a call for democratic change. “Every day, more and more people—individuals of different professions, generations, and backgrounds—are speaking out in various forms: through protests, petitions, speeches, or marches. This movement has united our diaspora, professionals, and even the public sector, which has been traditionally cautious about joining protests,” she noted.

The President also criticized the government’s rushed adoption of laws aimed at political repression, particularly targeting the public sector. “These repressive measures won’t work. You cannot imprison or intimidate an entire society. History has shown us that no totalitarian regime’s tactics can suppress a nation that stands united,” she asserted.

Zourabichvili highlighted the peaceful and unified nature of the protests, describing the atmosphere as one of solidarity, warmth, and national harmony. “This unity is what Georgia has long needed, and it’s becoming a reality. The protests are focused on one clear demand: the call for new elections. There is no other peaceful way forward,” she concluded.