Japaridze: Protests and global support are key to new elections and EU integration
Japaridze: Protests and global support are key to new elections and EU integration

Zurab Japaridze, one of the leaders of the Coalition for Change, emphasized that the ongoing protest on Rustaveli Avenue, now in its 26th day, has already yielded tangible results.

“It has been 57 days since the October 26 elections, yet only a handful of Russia-aligned nations have recognized the results. The main political activity is taking place on Rustaveli Avenue, and this must continue. Every individual who joins, even momentarily, significantly contributes to our cause. Through persistent protest and international support, we can secure new elections, the release of political prisoners, and a reaffirmation of our commitment to European integration. Georgia still has an opportunity to fully join the European Union in the coming years while steadfastly maintaining peace,” Japaridze stated.

Addressing President Salome Zourabichvili’s recent call for Bidzina Ivanishvili to discuss scheduling new elections, Japaridze expressed scepticism.

“I don’t believe Ivanishvili will take that step at this moment. We’re not at that point yet. However, the time will come when he will be compelled to negotiate, and the sole topic will be new elections. At that juncture, Ivanishvili will likely seek security guarantees before engaging. For now, I doubt he will agree,” Japaridze concluded.