In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, former Georgian Prime Minister Nika Gilauri painted a bleak picture of his nation's political landscape, alleging that recent elections were manipulated, resulting in an illegitimate parliament. This situation deals a significant blow to Georgia's aspirations of joining the European Union.
Gilauri pointedly stated, "The elections were rigged, leaving us with a parliament lacking legitimacy." This sentiment resonates with many Georgians who view the pro-Russia Georgian Dream party's victory as a strategic win for Russian President Vladimir Putin. Gilauri highlighted Putin's swift praise of the Georgian government's resistance to European pressure following Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze's announcement of halting European integration efforts. This, Gilauri argued, suggests a coordinated effort.
Gilauri, who served as prime minister from 2009 to 2012, sees Russia's influence pervading Georgian affairs, drawing parallels with alleged Russian interference in Romanian and Moldovan elections. He asserted, "We're witnessing a recurring pattern orchestrated in Moscow, impacting Romania, Moldova, Ukraine, and now Georgia." This interference comes amidst ongoing protests in Georgia against the election results and the decision to halt EU accession talks. Amnesty International reports over 460 detentions since the protests began on November 29, with numerous allegations of mistreatment.
Gilauri emphasized the importance of President Salome Zourabichvili remaining in office, describing her as "the only legitimate institution Georgia currently possesses." Zourabichvili has denounced the elections as fraudulent and rejected the parliament's authority to appoint her successor. The parliament, dominated by Georgian Dream, has chosen Mikheil Kavelashvili, a figure seen by the opposition as aligning with the party's pro-Russia stance. Zourabichvili has called for negotiations and new elections, but her term ends on December 29, potentially exacerbating the political instability.
Prime Minister Kobakhidze has even suggested imprisonment for Zourabichvili if she refuses to leave office. Georgian Dream, while claiming commitment to Western integration, has also emphasized a pragmatic approach towards Russia. The opposition, however, contests the election results, citing irregularities and fraud. International observers, including the OSCE, have also noted concerns about the election environment. The situation is further complicated by the strong pro-EU sentiment among Georgians, contrasting with Georgian Dream's stalling of EU accession efforts, particularly after the controversial "foreign agent" law.
