As Georgians prepare for what many are calling a pivotal election, Bidzina Ivanishvili, the founder of the ruling Georgian Dream party, addressed thousands of supporters in Tbilisi, stating firmly, “We choose peace, not war.” With the election just three days away, Ivanishvili’s party faces significant pressure from four opposition groups vying for power after 12 years in governance.
The atmosphere is charged as the ruling party accuses the opposition of seeking to entangle Georgia in the ongoing war in Ukraine. Meanwhile, the opposition frames the election as a choice between continued alignment with Russia under Georgian Dream or a path toward integration with Europe.
In his address at Liberty Square, Ivanishvili, considered one of the most influential figures in Georgia, urged the crowd to envision “a dignified European future based on equality.” Public sentiment leans heavily toward EU membership; however, the European Union recently froze the accession process due to concerns about the Georgian government’s democratic backsliding.
Despite claims from Georgian Dream that they remain on track to join the EU by 2030, the opposition argues that the government is undermining this goal. While Georgian opinion polls are not seen as entirely reliable, recent surveys indicate that although Georgian Dream may secure a victory, the combined forces of the four opposition parties could surpass them in votes.
Reflecting the campaign’s intensity, Ivanishvili’s rally on Tuesday filled Liberty Square with supporters waving flags of both Georgia and the ruling party. The energy was a stark contrast to the previous Sunday when opposition supporters packed the square, showcasing their allegiance to the European Union.
As Ivanishvili delivered his speech behind protective glass, Tbilisi Mayor and Georgian Dream Secretary-General Kakha Kaladze reiterated the party’s stance, accusing “so-called friends of Georgia” of meddling in the elections and asserting, “We refuse to be anyone’s vassal, following the wishes of others.”
