Political analyst says ruling GD’s Ivanishvili elevated to cult status

Political analyst Gia Khukhashvili commented on the political developments in Georgia, describing the current Parliament as not just one-party dominated but reflective of a personality cult centered on Bidzina Ivanishvili, the founder of the ruling Georgian Dream party.

“In the 21st century, such things were unimaginable. This is reminiscent of previous centuries when such acts occurred. Ivanishvili has been outrightly positioned as a leader, almost deified. God grant him long life, but perhaps soon a plot will be allocated for one lari and a mausoleum might even be constructed in his honor,” Khukhashvili remarked.

He emphasized the severe political and state crisis facing Georgia, arguing that the long-term future of the country is at stake, not just the current political structure. Khukhashvili also critiqued the opposition’s strategy, calling their boycott of the new Parliament a tactical mistake.

“They should have entered the Parliament building and staged a disruption during the recognition of its [Parliament’s] authority. That would have sent a strong global message of protest. They had every opportunity to create significant political obstruction before Ivanishvili and disrupt this celebration of power,” he said, attributing their inaction to either a lack of courage or creativity.