The Parliament of Georgia has officially terminated the mandates of 12 members of the opposition party “For Georgia”, founded by former Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia. The move comes in response to the party's prolonged boycott of parliamentary sessions and refusal to participate in the legislative process. 

At the same time, the parliamentary majority also decided to suspend state funding for the party, citing violations of the Law on Political Associations of Citizens.

Since the adoption of the controversial “foreign agents” law, the "For Georgia" party has actively boycotted parliamentary proceedings, accusing the ruling party, Georgian Dream, of dismantling the country’s democratic institutions.

Giorgi Gakharia, who previously served as Prime Minister, has been a vocal critic of the government, accusing it of persecuting the opposition, suppressing the media, and sliding toward authoritarianism. After resigning in 2021, he founded his own political movement, which secured approximately 7% of the vote in the last election and entered parliament with 12 deputies.

Representatives of the ruling coalition stated that the parliament’s actions fully comply with the law and are aimed at ensuring “discipline and legitimacy” within the legislative body. Opposition figures and civil society activists have called the decision a “political purge” and another step toward the erosion of democracy in Georgia.

The decision has raised concerns among Western nations. The United Kingdom summoned the Georgian ambassador for an explanation, while human rights organizations are urging the Georgian authorities to stop pressuring political opponents.

Source: Eurointegration

#GEORGIA

02.07.2025 08:25