Opposition Parties React to Presidential Election
The opposition parties in Georgia are refusing to recognize the presidential election scheduled for December 14. They claim that the illegitimate parliament does not have the authority to elect a president.
According to them, Salome Zurabishvili remains the legitimate president of Georgia and the supreme commander of the country‘s defense forces.
Joint Statement
A joint statement was released by the opposition parties “Unity – National Movement”, “Coalition for Change” and Strong Georgia. They stated that instead of peace, the government has responded to protests with repression, terror, and torture.
“We do not recognize the self-proclaimed government or any of its branches,” said the statement. “Instead of elections, Ivanishvili organized a constitutional coup against Georgian citizens.”
The opposition parties claim that over 500 people have been turned into political prisoners by the government’s gang formations. They demand the immediate release of these individuals and an independent investigation into their treatment.
Journalists Under Pressure
The opposition parties also expressed support for journalists who have been subjected to special pressure and violence in recent days.
Only One Legitimate Institution
They emphasized that the only legitimate state institution is the President of Georgia, which makes Salome Zurabishvili the legitimate representative of the state.