Tensions continue to escalate in Georgia’s political landscape following the parliamentary elections on October 26, 2024. Three opposition coalitions—Coalition for Change (11.03%, 19 mandates), United National Movement (10.17%, 16 mandates), and Strong Georgia Alliance (8.81%, 14 mandates)—have rejected the results and declared a boycott, refusing to take up their parliamentary mandates.
The Georgian Central Election Commission (CEC) has annulled these parties’ proportional lists, effectively requiring 49 opposition lawmakers to individually file applications to participate in parliament. The CEC maintains that the elections were conducted in full compliance with constitutional principles and that the results are legitimate. However, opposition forces argue otherwise, asserting that the election outcomes do not reflect the will of the people.
On November 25, the Georgian parliament convened its first session with only 88 lawmakers from the ruling Georgian Dream party, forming a single-party parliament—a rare and unprecedented event in Georgia’s history. The opposition’s refusal to join parliament raises significant concerns about political balance and the state of democracy in the country. The ongoing boycott could deepen public discontent and exacerbate the existing political crisis.
Former Prime Minister and leader of the opposition party Gakharia for Georgia, Giorgi Gakharia, has stated that his faction will not immediately relinquish its 12 mandates. According to Gakharia, the parliament lacks legitimacy, and any decisions regarding their participation or resignation will be made on their terms. He emphasized that his party is not influenced by either the United National Movement or the ruling Georgian Dream.
The opposition’s rejection of mandates and continued boycott could lead to a prolonged political crisis. If opposition forces remain passive, the Georgian parliament risks becoming more insular and one-sided, potentially damaging the country’s international reputation and the foundations of its democracy. This situation demands constructive dialogue and mutual compromise to restore public trust in Georgia’s electoral processes and governance, and the other way is the new elections.
