Georgia Faces Political Turmoil as Local Elections Loom
URGENT UPDATE: Georgia is on the brink of political upheaval with local elections set for October 4, 2023, as the ruling party, Georgian Dream, faces intense scrutiny for alleged ties to Moscow. This marks the party’s first electoral challenge since last year’s controversial parliamentary elections plunged the nation into chaos.
The upcoming local elections, typically a minor event, have escalated tensions due to a government crackdown on independent media, opposition parties, and civil society groups. These organizations are mobilizing supporters to flood the streets of Tbilisi on Saturday, aiming to reignite mass protests against the government.
One of the protest leaders, opera star-turned-activist Paata Burchuladze, has called for a “national assembly” on election day, urging citizens to demand a peaceful transfer of power. “Georgian Dream is wrecking our democracy and our European future. They have got to go,” said Levan Baramidze, a 31-year-old architect, emphasizing the urgency of the rally.
Since taking power in 2012, Georgian Dream has portrayed itself as a pro-European alternative, yet it faces accusations of aligning with Russia and suppressing dissent. The government’s recent actions, including a controversial “foreign agents” law, have sparked outrage in a nation that is largely anti-Russian.
The European Union has responded with sanctions against several officials for previous crackdowns on protesters. They have warned that without improvements in rule of law and human rights, Georgia could lose its visa-free travel agreement with the EU.
As tensions rise, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has labeled the upcoming protests as radical, promising a “strict” response to any violence. While some opposition parties are planning to boycott the elections, others intend to field candidates, indicating a divided front that could weaken their impact.
In a recent poll by Georgia’s Institute of Social Studies and Analysis, Georgian Dream maintains an approval rating of over 35 percent. This support is particularly strong among older voters who believe the government is protecting the nation from foreign threats. “Some Western forces pushed Georgia to open a second front against Russia,” said Ramin Svanidze, a 73-year-old pensioner, reflecting a widespread sentiment in rural areas.
However, rights groups report that approximately 60 people have been jailed since last year’s protests, including key opposition figures and journalists. The atmosphere of fear is palpable, with heavy fines and police violence against dissenters stifling independent voices.
As the clock ticks down to the elections, the potential for unrest looms large. Schoolteacher Guliko Archvadze, 50, expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of another large rally, stating, “We were in the streets for months by the tens of thousands, and nothing changed. One more huge rally won’t bring down Georgian Dream.”
With the stakes higher than ever, all eyes in Georgia and beyond will be on the streets of Tbilisi this weekend as citizens prepare to make their voices heard. The outcome of the local elections could reshape the political landscape and determine the future direction of Georgia amid escalating regional tensions.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops.
