Tina Bokuchava, Chairwoman of the United National Movement, stated that the government is deliberately delaying action on banning political parties.

“The regime is in no hurry. For months, it has been dragging its feet on banning parties, despite the creation of a parliamentary commission for this. They realize they are not in a political position to take another repressive step now,” Bokuchava said.

She emphasized that the government is aware of potential international consequences.

“They know there will be serious consequences, especially from international partners, because this is a red line and would officially signify the establishment of a one-party dictatorship in the country,” she added.

Bokuchava also noted that the delay reflects fear of a unified opposition.

“Today, the opposition alliance is the most effective opposition unity created in recent times. There are two factors here — one is the regime’s fear of opposition unity, and the second is that they are trying to buy time. Technically, they would need to withdraw the existing lawsuit and file a new one if they really plan to add new parties,” she said.

Earlier today, Irakli Kobakhidze, Prime Minister of Georgia, stated: “We will probably have to correct the lawsuit filed with the Constitutional Court; we will need to change or add the names of the parties.”

For context, a lawsuit was filed with the Constitutional Court seeking to declare the activities of the United National Movement, Coalition for Change, and Strong Georgia – Lelo unconstitutional and banned.