European Parliament Condemns Georgian Ruling Party
On November 28, the European Parliament passed a resolution criticizing the ruling Georgian Dream party for its authoritarian shift. The resolution was adopted with a strong majority of votes.
The document condemns the democratic backsliding in Georgia and accuses the ruling party of rigging elections. It also proposes several measures, including targeted sanctions against individuals who contribute to this backsliding.
Reactions from Georgian Opposition
Opposition parties have welcomed the resolution, while the ruling party has dismissed it as “worthless”.
Irakli Kobakhidze, Prime Minister, said that the document was not interesting or relevant. Maka Botchorishvili, Foreign Affairs Minister, also criticized the resolution for containing inaccurate information and demands.
In contrast, opposition leaders have praised the European Parliament’s stance.
Nika Gvaramia of Coalition for Change said that the resolution was “unprecedentedly tough” and called for new elections with a neutral administration. He also demanded sanctions against those responsible for election fraud.
Tina Bokuchava of Coalition Unity-UNM emphasized the full support from most European Parliament members, highlighting the call for new elections and individual sanctions against those undermining Georgian democracy.
Salome Samadashvili of Strong Georgia noted that the resolution recognizes the October 26 elections as illegitimate. She expressed regret over the potential delay in Georgia’s European future and review of visa-free travel.
Beka Liluashvili from Gakharia for Georgia demanded accountability for election theft and democratic regression, stating that sanctions are necessary to protect the Georgian people.
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