The article discusses the current political situation in Georgia, where a 2017 constitutional amendment has effectively reduced the president’s role to a ceremonial one. The opposition is boycotting the upcoming presidential election, which they claim will be rigged by the ruling party, Georgian Dream.
The new electoral college system allows members of parliament and representatives from autonomous republics to choose the president, giving the ruling party significant influence over the outcome. This has led to speculation that a loyal figure, such as former Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili, will be chosen for the presidency.
The opposition is threatening to boycott the parliament’s work or resign if their demands are not met, which could lead to further destabilization of the country. The Georgian Dream may attempt to ban the opposition through the controlled Constitutional Court, but this would only strengthen the arguments of those who demand that neither the past elections nor the legitimacy of the new parliament be recognized.
The article notes that international attention is focused on Georgia, with European leaders warning that the country’s current trajectory risks isolating it from the West. However, some opposition members worry that the international community may seek compromise with Georgian Dream rather than supporting more direct action.
Key points:
* A 2017 constitutional amendment has reduced the president’s role to a ceremonial one in Georgia.
* The new electoral college system gives the ruling party significant influence over the presidency.
* The opposition is boycotting the upcoming presidential election, claiming it will be rigged by Georgian Dream.
* The Georgian Dream may attempt to ban the opposition through the Constitutional Court.
* International attention is focused on Georgia, with European leaders warning that the country’s current trajectory risks isolating it from the West.
Recurring themes:
* Erosion of democracy and human rights
* Influence of external powers (Russia) on a country’s internal politics
* Role of international community in supporting or ignoring democratic movements
* Tension between competing political interests within a country
Tone:
* Critical of Georgian Dream’s actions and the erosion of democracy
* Concerned about the potential for further destabilization and loss of legitimacy
* Optimistic about the opposition’s resolve to continue protests and build a large-scale movement