**Georgia’s President Warns of Threat to Democracy**
The President of Georgia, Salome Zurabishvili, has spoken out against the country’s current state of affairs. She says that all institutions in Georgia are controlled by a single party and its leader.
In a speech to the Italian Parliament, President Zurabishvili stated that the government, parliament, courts, central bank, and election commission are all headed by people chosen by the ruling party. This means that they are not independent and do not serve the best interests of the country.
**Threats to Opposition**
President Zurabishvili also warned that opposition parties and civil society groups face threats from the ruling party. She said that anyone who receives funding from outside Georgia is at risk under a Russian law that will be implemented in the country. This could lead to the closure of humanitarian organizations.
**Loss of Democracy**
The President’s speech was a stark warning about the state of democracy in Georgia. She said that the country, which was once seen as a model for democratic reforms in the region, is now moving in the opposite direction. The recent presidential election was seen as a parody, with only one candidate and party participating.
**One Person’s Control**
President Zurabishvili highlighted that all power in Georgia is concentrated in the hands of one person. She did not mention the name, but it is widely known that the country’s de facto ruler is Bidzina Ivanishvili. The President warned that this person has close ties to Russia and may be using their power for personal gain.
Read More @ www.interpressnews.ge