A New President Elected in Georgia
Protests in Georgia did not disrupt the country’s ability to hold new elections. Following parliamentary elections, Georgian law mandates presidential elections within 45 days. On December 14, Mikheil Kavelashvili was elected as the new president of Georgia. This election was unique, as constitutional changes meant that the president was chosen not by the public but by an electoral college. It consisted of parliamentary members and local government representatives. Given that the ruling “Georgian Dream” party holds a parliamentary majority, Kavelashvili’s victory was expected.
Out of 300 electors in the college, 224 voted in favor of the decision. The 53-year-old former football player was the sole candidate for the presidency. His lack of higher education has drawn criticism from the public and opposition. However, Kavelashvili played for notable football clubs such as Manchester City, Dinamo, and Lokomotiv.
The new elected president will succeed Salome Zourabichvili, who was elected in 2018. His inauguration ceremony is scheduled for December 29.
Outgoing President Zourabichvili, along with opposition leaders, has refused to recognize the election results, declaring she will not step down.