Georgia's Ruling Party Wins Controversial Elections

On November 16, Georgia's Central Election Commission confirmed the ruling party, Georgian Dream, as the winner of the parliamentary elections held on October 26, securing 53.93% of the vote and 89 seats in parliament. This announcement sparked mass protests with demonstrators alleging election rigging, voter intimidation, and misconduct, leading to clashes outside the commission's headquarters. During a contentious commission meeting, opposition member Davit Kirtadze threw black paint on the commission chairman, resulting in an eye injury and a criminal investigation against him. The U.S. and EU have called for an investigation into the election for irregularities, amid concerns that the Georgian Dream party's victory indicates a shift towards Russian influence. Despite these allegations, Georgian Dream maintains that the elections were fair and legitimate, with Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze asserting that the parliament will convene in ten days. Political tensions are expected to escalate, potentially impacting Georgia's pro-European aspirations as the opposition contests the legitimacy of the new parliament.