Salome Zourabichvili, Georgia’s first female president, is speaking out against the current wave of unrest in the country following disputed elections. In an interview with Euronews, Zourabichvili calls the ruling party’s government “illegitimate” and highlights instances of voter intimidation and bribery during the October polls. The EU has demanded a rerun of the elections, which has led to protests and calls for new elections in Georgia. Zourabichvili emphasizes the importance of Western democratic partners in not recognizing the current government.
She stresses the need for stable transition to new elections to ensure a legitimate government in Georgia and to maintain the country’s path towards the European Union. Zourabichvili notes that the public service in the country is in dissent, with protests happening in all cities, a phenomenon not seen before. The president urges the European Union’s support in advocating for new elections.
Zourabichvili also addresses the role of security forces and the justice system in the country, pointing out the lack of independence in the judiciary. She asserts that the police are on the side of citizens, while the army remains quiet but leans towards pro-Western forces.
The president warns of Russia’s hybrid strategy to influence countries like Georgia and emphasizes the need for resilience and international support to ensure the will of the people prevails. Zourabichvili draws parallels to the situation in Romania and urges European partners to be vigilant against pro-Russian leaders emerging in unexpected places.
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Photo credit www.euronews.com
