Ruling power’s defeat highlighted by reintroduction of Russian-influenced law – President

President Salome Zourabichvili responded on Tuesday to the reintroduction of a foreign influence transparency bill by Georgia’s ruling Georgian Dream party. The bill had been previously rejected last year amidst mass protests. Zourabichvili warned that this move could lead to the Georgian Dream’s defeat in the upcoming October general elections.

 

Speaking on the 35th anniversary of the April 9 events, which commemorates the peaceful rally in Tbilisi demanding independence that was dispersed by Soviet troops, the president criticized the legislation, labeling it as a Russian-influenced law.

“The audacity to reintroduce Russian-influenced legislation on April 8 only underscores their defeat,” asserted Zourabichvili, emphasizing the significance of the timing.

On the solemn occasion of the April 9 tragedy, she highlighted the importance of this day in reaffirming Georgia’s sovereignty. “This marks a pivotal moment, a day when we reaffirm the unyielding strength of Georgia and its sovereignty,” she stated.

Acknowledging the dual nature of the day as both tragic and triumphant, Zourabichvili stressed the importance of unity in facing adversity. “Despite the sorrow that shadows this day, it is undeniably a day of victory. We stand resolute, knowing that Georgia’s independence remains unassailable,” she expressed.

Zourabichvili concluded by emphasizing the enduring triumph of Georgia and its unwavering commitment to independence.