Georgian Dream prepares to select new ally as president amid election controversies

Georgia's parliament has indicated that national and local lawmakers will select a new president on December 14. This electoral decision follows the contentious general election held on October 26, where the ruling party, Georgian Dream, emerged victorious despite allegations of electoral fraud and manipulation. The current president, Salome Zourabichvili, has publicly denounced the election results, suggesting a lack of legitimacy in the process. European observers noted a tumultuous voting environment that included bribery allegations and physical violence. The new election process marks a departure from previous practices, as a 300-seat electoral college composed of lawmakers from various levels will now elect the president, following 2017 constitutional changes that eliminated direct presidential elections. With Georgian Dream holding a majority within the college, it is anticipated that they will select a candidate aligned with their interests, replacing the outgoing president who was elected by popular vote. Critics of Georgian Dream, which was founded by billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili, contend that the party has increasingly drifted towards authoritarianism, drawing parallels to the Kremlin's tactics in suppressing dissent and curtailing freedoms. Recently, they have enacted laws impinging on civil liberties, drawing international ire and prompting the European Union to halt Georgia's membership application process due to concerns over democratic erosion since June. As the December election approaches, it becomes increasingly relevant for observers to monitor the political climate and the implications of this leadership change in Georgia. The election’s outcome could further influence the country's aspirations for European Union integration and shape its future political landscape, particularly amid ongoing accusations of internal repression and external influence.