Zurabishvili announced her departure from the presidential palace as the inauguration of Kavelashvili has already begun in Georgia.

This is reported by “Echo of the Caucasus” and News Georgia.

“I am leaving here and taking my legitimacy with me,” emphasized Zurabishvili at the Orbeliani Palace. She also stated that the inauguration of the new president is a “parody.”

Zurabishvili appeared in the same white and red suit that she wore six years ago at her own inauguration.

She then went out to the people gathered at the palace.

Meanwhile, Kavelashvili has already taken the oath at the inauguration ceremony, where he vowed, among other things, to defend the Constitution of Georgia, independence, territorial integrity, and indivisibility of the country.

What preceded this?

On December 14, the counting of votes concluded in the presidential elections of Georgia, which are not recognized by the opposition. According to the results, Mikheil Kavelashvili emerged as the winner—a former football player who was the sole candidate. He was nominated by the ruling party “Georgian Dream.”

The media referred to him as an “outstanding anti-Western figure” and pointed out his tendency to curse directly during parliamentary sessions. On one occasion, he even cursed Russian leader Vladimir Putin.

Current President Salome Zurabishvili stated that she will not resign, explaining that the parliament, which she calls illegitimate, will not be able to elect her successor.

Four opposition political groups in Georgia also declared that they do not recognize the legitimacy of the presidential elections and will consider Zurabishvili as the head of state.

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze stated that President Salome Zurabishvili will have to leave office on December 29, when her term expires, threatening her with prison if she does not comply.