Kobakhidze Threatens Zourabichvili with Imprisonment Over Election Dispute
By Liza Mchedlidze
Monday, December 23, 2024
Georgian Dream Chairman Irakli Kobakhidze issued a warning to President Salome Zourabichvili during a December 22 briefing, suggesting she could face imprisonment if she continues to challenge the legitimacy of the government and upcoming presidential inauguration.
Kobakhidze criticized Zourabichvili's refusal to recognize Mikheil Kavelashvili, elected by a one-party electoral college, as the incoming president. Zurabishvili maintains her position as the legitimate President until a new Parliament is established through free and fair elections. She views the planned December 29 inauguration as unconstitutional.
"Salome Zourabichvili will have to leave office on December 29. Let us see where she continues to live - beyond the bars or behind the bars," Kobakhidze stated, alleging that her actions could violate the Criminal Code.
Kobakhidze warned that any attempt by Zourabichvili to barricade herself in the presidential residence would be a criminal act. "Nobody may want to send a 72-year-old woman to prison, but if she chooses this path, she sacrifices those who may join her inside the residence, risking sentences of several years in prison."
He added that any public call for repeat or snap elections by the President could also constitute a criminal offense, as "such measures lack legal grounds."
Zourabichvili and the opposition have called for repeat elections, citing legitimacy concerns. However, Kobakhidze argued that the Central Election Commission and the Constitutional Court have validated the results, and snap elections can only occur if the government loses a vote of confidence, which has not happened.
"Her statement calling for repeat or snap elections is not only comical but also a criminal offense," Kobakhidze said, referencing provisions in the Criminal Code that could result in multi-year imprisonment.
Kobakhidze concluded his remarks with an ultimatum: "She has until 21:00 today to think. I hope someone smart advises her. Let us see who wins - someone smart, or Zourabichvili."
