Opposition backs Zourabichvili as “sole legitimate leader” ahead of “illegitimate elections”

All opposition parties that won seats in Georgia’s October general elections have rejected the legitimacy of the upcoming Presidential vote this week. They reaffirmed Salome Zourabichvili as the country’s “sole legitimate leader.”

In a joint statement, the Unity National Movement, Coalition for Change, and Strong Georgia condemned the elections, scheduled for December 14, claiming they were unconstitutional. Gakharia for Georgia issued a separate statement confirming its opposition.

The opposition parties accused the ruling Georgian Dream party, “led by Bidzina Ivanishvili”, of executing a “constitutional coup” and engaging in widespread political repression. They also expressed concern over attacks on the media and pledged support for press freedom.

The opposition demanded the immediate release of those detained during protests against delayed EU integration and called for new elections under a neutral election administration, refusing to recognize the current process as legitimate.