Sun Dec 29 17:41:20 UTC 2024: ## Former Soccer Star Inaugurated as Georgian President Amidst Protests and EU Concerns

TBILISI, GEORGIA – Mikheil Kavelashvili, a former soccer player, was sworn in as Georgia’s new president on Sunday, December 29, 2024, sparking widespread protests and raising concerns about the country’s pro-Western trajectory. Kavelashvili’s victory, secured through an electoral college controlled by the ruling Georgian Dream party, is viewed by the opposition as a setback for Georgia’s EU aspirations and a win for Russia.

Outgoing President Salome Zourabichvili, a pro-Western figure, boycotted the inauguration, calling it a “parody” and maintaining her claim as the legitimate president. She vacated the presidential residence but addressed supporters, emphasizing her legitimacy and accusing the Georgian Dream party of undermining Georgia’s democratic processes.

Kavelashvili’s inauguration followed a controversial October election, which the opposition alleges was rigged with Russian interference. The Georgian Dream party, founded by a Russian-based billionaire, has been accused of increasingly authoritarian tactics, including passing laws restricting freedom of speech and LGBTQ+ rights, similar to those implemented in Russia. The party’s recent suspension of EU accession talks further fueled opposition outrage.

Protests erupted outside the parliament building, with demonstrators holding red cards – a reference to Kavelashvili’s soccer career – to symbolize their rejection of his presidency. The crackdown on protests has involved riot police using tear gas and water cannons, resulting in injuries and detentions. The US and EU have condemned the government’s actions.

Kavelashvili, lacking a higher education, served in parliament for the Georgian Dream and co-authored legislation requiring foreign-funded organizations to register as agents of foreign influence, a move that mirrors Russian tactics and has prompted the EU to halt accession talks and financial aid. Despite the controversies, Kavelashvili called for national unity in his inaugural speech. The situation leaves Georgia’s future relationship with the EU uncertain and highlights growing concerns about the influence of Russia in the region.

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