“Today is a historic day. In the Palace of the Parliament of Georgia, within this significant hall—where Georgia’s independence was proclaimed, the Declaration of Independence was signed, and where the first President of Georgia was sworn in—we are holding the solemn inauguration ceremony for the sixth President of Georgia,” the Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili stated during his speech at the inauguration ceremony of the elected President of Georgia, Mikheil Kavelashvili.

As noted by Shalva Papuashvili, the new edition of the Constitution of Georgia has come into full effect. This marks the establishment of a parliamentary republic, which will enhance the principle of the separation of powers and reinforce the democratic foundations of the country.

“Two weeks ago, on December 14, 2024, the elections for the President of Georgia took place in this hall under the new constitutional rules. The 300-member electoral college elected Mr. Mikheil Kavelashvili as the President of Georgia with 224 votes. The experience of Georgian politics shows that the role of the President, while carrying great honor, also comes with immense responsibility. Being President means being the head of state, not the ruler of the state; serving as a symbol of statehood and independence, rather than being a political activist; and being loyal to the country above personal ambitions. This is a delicate balance that some have found difficult to maintain.

This sentiment is reflected in the firm and clear expression of unwavering will demonstrated by 1,120,000 of our fellow citizens on October 26. This strong backing will support the sixth President of Georgia. Given this high level of trust, the new President’s role will be crucial in achieving national consensus, strengthening the constitutional order, and effectively representing Georgia on the world stage.

On this historic day, we also aim to establish a new tradition for the inauguration of the President. From now on, similar to traditional parliamentary republics, the inauguration ceremony of the President of Georgia will take place in the Palace of Parliament,” said Shalva Papuashvili.

“From today, Georgia will have a President who will protect the true will of the people and the Constitution! From today, Georgia will have a President who will safeguard our national values and interests! I wish Mikheil Kavelashvili great success in fulfilling his honourable mission,” he added.