Mikheil Kavelashvili Elected President of Georgia

Mikheil Kavelashvili, a former soccer player, has been elected as the new president of Georgia, succeeding Salome Zurabishvili, who refuses to vacate her office, claiming the election was illegitimate. Kavelashvili was the only candidate on the ballot, elected by an electoral college dominated by the ruling Georgian Dream party, which has been accused of authoritarianism and pro-Russian tendencies. Demonstrations have erupted against the election, with opposition leaders alleging that the process was rigged to consolidate power, particularly following a controversial parliamentary election in October that they claim was aided by Moscow. The opposition has boycotted parliamentary sessions and demands a new election, and Zurabishvili has vowed to remain in office until a legitimate election is held. Critics express concern that Georgia's aspirations for EU membership are at risk due to the ruling party's recent actions, including suspending EU accession talks. Kavelashvili's inauguration is set for December 29 amid ongoing protests against the government.