TBILISI: Mikheil Kavelashvili has officially assumed the presidency of Georgia following a swearing-in ceremony at the Parliament in Tbilisi, marking the beginning of his 5-year term. Kavelashvili, representing the ruling Georgian Dream party, secured his position with an overwhelming majority, receiving 224 out of 225 votes from the College of Electors.
According to Qatar News Agency, Kavelashvili’s ascent to the presidency comes in the wake of the Georgian Dream party’s victory in the elections held on October 26. Despite the clear electoral outcome, the transition has been marred by controversy. Former President Salome Zourabichvili has publicly refused to relinquish her office, asserting herself as the “only legitimate president” of Georgia. Her declaration has been bolstered by significant public support, manifesting in widespread protests across the nation.
The political climate remains tense as Zourabichvili calls for new elections, challenging the legitimacy of Kavelashvili’s presidency. The situation has drawn international attention, given Georgia’s strategic importance and its ongoing journey toward democratic governance. The unfolding events are being closely monitored by observers both within the country and abroad, as the new administration begins its tenure amid a backdrop of political unrest.
