The Georgian political party United National Movement, founded by former President Mikheil Saakashvili, has announced a withdrawal from parliament. Party representatives conveyed the move via social media, noting that the platform hosting the message has faced scrutiny and restrictions in some jurisdictions.
The statement declared that parliamentary activity by the United National Movement would pause, signaling a shift in how the party plans to pursue its political agenda. The party emphasized that the decision would not end political activity but would intensify street-level engagement and protest activity, with the capital city expected to become a focal point for demonstrations.
In a separate legal development, a February 6 court decision postponed Saakashvili’s health-related release from custody, a ruling that the party criticized as politically charged. The party characterized the delay as a serious setback for one of its most prominent leaders and called for renewed attention to the conditions surrounding his detention and medical status.
Levan Khabeishvili, who leads the United National Movement, publicly stated the party’s intention to establish a headquarters or command center dedicated to coordinating efforts for Saakashvili’s release, signaling a more organized and sustained advocacy approach. The move underscores ongoing tensions between the government and the opposition, as supporters advocate for Saakashvili’s freedom and for broader democratic reforms.