**Protests Continue in Georgia**
December 14 was the 17th day of protests in Georgia. It was a snowy day, and the country also marked two important events: one year since being granted EU candidate status and the election of a new president.
The presidential election took place against the backdrop of a protest rally outside the parliament building. A smaller group protested on Mount Street. The protesters gathered at the main destination – Rustaveli Avenue.
**New President Elected**
A new president, Mikheil Kavelashvili, was elected by the electoral college. He is not from a popular vote and has been protested as illegitimate. Kavelashvili had been nominated by Bidzina Ivanishvili and was the only candidate.
**Protests Continue Despite Cold Weather**
The protesters were determined to keep protesting despite the cold weather. They held photos of people who have been injured by the repressive regime.
**President Joins Protests**
Even President Salome Zurabishvili joined the protests on Rustaveli Avenue.
**Christmas Tree Ceremony Delayed**
A Christmas tree ceremony, scheduled for December 14, was delayed due to the protests. Police officers were seen near the fenced-off area where the tree was supposed to be set up.
The protesters held signs that read “Freedom to regime prisoners” and “A diploma will be awarded to Mikheil Kavelashvili…”. The protests continued with a determination to bring about change in Georgia.
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