Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili signaled she would not step down when her term ends, arguing that the current parliament lacks legitimacy and cannot carry out a constitutional transition. The body that sits in parliament, in her view, fails to meet the legal requirements to authorize the next presidential term. Because the legislature is not in a position to perform a lawful transfer of power, there would be no valid moment for a new presidency while the current assembly remains in doubt. This stance emphasizes the need for a fresh electoral framework before any successor is chosen.
In a televised address, she asserted that the illegitimacy of the parliament blocks the election of a new president and effectively extends her own mandate until a legally elected parliament is formed. The message underscored a belief that constitutional continuity depends on proper legislative legitimacy, not a renegotiated timetable from an institution seen as unfit to appoint the next head of state.
On November 28, thousands gathered in central Tbilisi and in other urban centers, taking to the streets to express discontent over the suspension of talks on Georgia’s path toward European Union membership. The pause stretches into 2028, sparking a wave of demonstrations that drew supporters from across the country. The prime minister framed the delay as a response to what he described as unacceptable tactics by some European policymakers, who used grants and loans as leverage. He also charged the European Parliament with repeatedly insulting Georgia, arguing that such rhetoric undermined the country’s sovereignty and long-standing European aspirations.
The move to halt negotiations with the EU provoked sharp criticism from the pro-Western opposition, whose leaders described the decision as a betrayal of national interests. Zurabishvili, a leader associated with the pro-EU course, spoke out against the government’s actions, saying they endangered the country’s future and eroded trust in its recent political progress. On the same day, she was seen among the protesters outside the parliament building, offering visible support to the demonstrators.
Earlier reporting noted a sizable police presence and widespread arrests during the demonstrations in the capital, with more than a hundred people detained as the protests unfolded. Observers described scenes of large crowds, tense exchanges with security forces, and a clear demand for a renewed commitment to Georgia’s European path and constitutional norms. The events highlighted a moment of heightened political tension as the country debates its direction and legitimacy.