Political Crisis Escalating in Georgia as President Refuses to Hand Over Power

georgia - The political crisis in Georgia continues as the outgoing President refuses to transfer power, sparking concerns of escalating tensions in the country.

The political crisis in Georgia, where pro-European Union demonstrators have been protesting since November 28, is ongoing. The newly elected 6th president of the country, Mikheil Kavelashvili, took office yesterday by swearing an oath, while the outgoing President Salome Zurabishvili announced that she would not hand over her duties.

Zurabishvili stated that she would vacate the Presidential Palace, but would continue her duties from outside, arguing that she is the 'legitimate president' as long as the parliamentary elections are not repeated. After her speech, Zurabishvili left the palace to meet her supporters. Zurabishvili and the anti-government protestors once again marched to the parliament building, demanding a re-run of the parliamentary elections. Meanwhile, during his oath ceremony, Kavelashvili emphasized the importance of protecting national and religious interests, continuing to take effective steps towards the country's development, prosperity, and integration with the EU.

The refusal of Zurabishvili to hand over power is raising concerns about further escalation of the political crisis in the country.