Georgians are gearing up to vote in parliamentary elections this Saturday, with the outcome expected to shape the country’s geopolitical direction towards either Moscow or Brussels. The political divide in Georgia has been highlighted by wide-scale protests against a controversial “foreign agents” law, seen as a sign of the ruling party’s pro-Russia tilt.
Opposition parties, leaning towards the West and aiming for EU membership, are looking to form a coalition to challenge the ruling Georgian Dream party. Polls indicate a closely contested battle, with young voters supporting the opposition while older generations and rural areas favor the ruling party.
The election will determine whether Georgia continues its path towards EU membership or pivots towards closer ties with Russia. The ruling Georgian Dream party, initially perceived as pro-European, has shown signs of moving closer to Moscow in recent years, prompting concerns about the country’s democratic future.
Despite polls suggesting Georgian Dream may win the most votes, forming a majority government remains uncertain. All opposition parties have ruled out working with the ruling party, creating the potential for a power struggle. The opposition is banking on the Georgian Charter, a pro-European agreement, to implement reforms and trigger snap elections.
As the country waits for the election results, tensions are high, with the younger generation prepared to protest against a Russian influence resurgence if Georgian Dream retains power. Conversely, international mediation may be needed if the opposition wins, with potential consequences from Russia, including trade embargoes, lurking on the horizon.
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