Founder of the Chavchavadze Center warns of end of political pluralism in Georgia

Zaza Bibilashvili, founder of the Chavchavadze Center, has warned that proceedings to ban five opposition parties could mark the end of political pluralism in Georgia.

Bibilashvili said the case could prevent virtually anyone who had expressed critical views over the past 14 years from engaging in political activity.

“Let us consider this the end of an era in Georgia. This marks the end not only of party politics, but of politics in general,” he said.

“Georgia has long had no functioning judiciary, including the Constitutional Court. We are witnessing the implementation of instructions at an accelerated pace. Every day, we are witnessing the absurd,” Bibilashvili added.

Hearings in the Constitutional Court case seeking to ban five opposition parties are due to resume on Monday, with proceedings scheduled to begin at 14:00.