Saakashvili Urges Opposition Unity and Transitional Government Formation
By Liza Mchedlidze
Monday, April 22, 2024
Former president Mikheil Saakashvili has released a new letter, urging the opposition to unite under a common list for the upcoming elections. He proposed that following the defeat of the ruling Georgian Dream party by this unified opposition, a transitional government should be formed. Saakashvili suggested that this transitional government should comprise individuals who are not currently prominent figures in politics.
"At a crucial moment for the country, the main order of our proud, strong people is unity. As an individual and a regional leader, I am ready to do everything for this unity. First of all, unity means a common list for elections. All major pro-European powers will delegate their representatives to this common list on a parity basis. The election number can be chosen randomly.
According to our calculations, in the case of a common list, the opposition will defeat Dream with a ratio of 70/30. Then, a transitional government should be formed and staffed with strong specialists who are currently in the country but not prominently involved in politics at this stage. The opposition and civil society should agree on changes in the court, principles of de-oligarchization, and the future consensual presidential candidate," Saakashvili said.
Saakashvili discussed the United National Movement and advocated for new leadership to emerge, emphasizing the necessity of unity and collaboration with society and other political factions.
Saakashvili notes that despite being "isolated by the regime" now, he is ready to actively participate in this process. He requested the UNM to establish a party board in the coming days.
According to the former president, this is a crucial moment, and in the coming days, "the political backbone of the Russian regime must be broken". Saakashvili emphasized that "No to Russian Law" and "No to Russian Regime" are inseparable slogans.
"Furthermore, we need to reform the election administration and appoint trustworthy individuals. Ivanishvili has misled Georgian society multiple times, and this time, we must not give him the opportunity to deceive us," stated Saakashvili.
