**New Parliament to Meet on November 25**
The first session of the 11th convocation of Georgia’s Parliament will take place on Monday, November 25. This was announced by Speaker Shalva Papuashvili at a briefing today.
Normally, the President is required to call the first session of a new Parliament. However, President Salome Zurabishvili has refused to do so, citing her disagreement with the election results. Despite this, the ruling party, GD, is moving forward with convening the Parliament.
**What Happens at the First Session**
Papuashvili said that during the first session, the Parliament will:
* Recognize its own authority
* Confirm the powers of all 150 MPs
* Form factions and elect leaders
* Elect a new Speaker and deputies
* Set up parliamentary committees and their heads
**Court Challenges Ahead**
Two complaints have been filed with Georgia’s Constitutional Court, which could delay the formation of a new Parliament. However, the GD seems to be ignoring these challenges.
Papuashvili called this move “disinformation” and claimed it was spread by foreign-funded organizations. He also stated that the President’s appeal to the court will not prevent the formation of a new Parliament.
**Next Steps**
The new Parliament is expected to elect a new President of Georgia, as Salome Zurabishvili’s term expires in December. The election will be held by a 300-member electoral college consisting of MPs and representatives from Abkhazia and Adjara.
Additionally, the Parliament will give a vote of confidence to the new Government and its program.
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