**Parliament Approves Bill to Ban Political Parties**
The Georgian Parliament has given its initial approval to a bill that would allow the country‘s Constitutional Court to ban political parties. The proposed amendments to the “Law on Political Associations of Citizens” and the “Law on the Constitutional Court” were passed with 83 votes, according to Interpressnews.
This move is significant as it gives the government more control over the country’s politics. The bill was introduced by the ruling party, “Georgian Dream”. Under this new legislation, if a political party’s goals and activities are deemed similar to those of a party already banned by the court, it could also face a ban.
**Shortening Decision Timelines**
In addition to allowing for the banning of parties, the bill also aims to speed up the process for deciding on the constitutionality of a party’s activities. The proposed amendments would require the Constitutional Court to deliver a decision within 9 months from the date of filing a complaint during non-election periods and within 14 days during election periods.
There is even talk of further shortening this timeline, with lawmakers discussing the possibility of making it as little as 2-3 months. This has raised concerns about the potential for hasty decisions that could have serious implications for the country’s politics.
**What Does This Mean?**
The current legislation requires a party to be banned only by a decision from the Constitutional Court, and only if its goals are deemed anti-constitutional. The new bill would give the government more power over political parties and potentially allow for their banning based on similar criteria as previously established parties.
This move has sparked debate among lawmakers and experts, with some arguing that it could lead to increased government control over politics while others see it as a way to protect national security and stability.
As the bill moves forward, the public will be watching closely. Will this new legislation bring stability and order to Georgian politics or will it silence opposition voices? Only time will tell.