01.12.2024 (Caucasian Journal). Georgia's political landscape is witnessing a significant transformation as key institutions and businesses increasingly distance themselves from the ruling regime. Several major organizations, including banks and telecommunications providers, have condemned the government's recent decision to postpone EU accession talks until 2028. President Salome Zourabichvili deemed the parliament illegitimate and proclaimed herself the country’s only legitimate authority.
Key institutions and companies that have expressed dissent include:
Banking Sector: The Bank of Georgia and TBC Bank, the two largest banks in the country, have publicly expressed their opposition to the government's decision. The statement from the Bank of Georgia emphasizes "For the Bank of Georgia, whose name bears a special weight, there is no alternative to the country’s road towards Eurointegration. On the way to Europe — don’t stop!"
Telecommunications: Magti and Silknet, the leading internet providers, have condemned the government's actions and reaffirmed their commitment to European integration. Silknet condemned the "violence against peaceful protesters," stating, "We believe that Georgia should maintain its constitutional order and remain in the European space. Refusing this path equates to rejecting freedom, progress, and the future." The other major telecom company, Magti, issued a similar statement earlier.
Government Institutions: Employees at the Foreign Ministry and the National Bank of Georgia have staged protests and issued statements criticizing the government's decision. Several Georgia’s ambassadors have officially resigned, supported by over one hundred staff members from the Foreign Ministry. More than 180 employees of the National Bank of Georgia stated, "The announcement made on November 28 regarding Georgia’s withdrawal from negotiations with the European Union until 2028 contradicts Article 78 of the Constitution of Georgia and undermines the country’s historical aspiration to become a full member of the European family."
Local Government: Tbilisi and Batumi City Hall employees have also voiced their disapproval of the government's stance. Approximately 150 employees declared that they “clearly and unequivocally distance ourselves from the decision to suspend Georgia's EU membership process until 2028, which is inconsistent with the goal expressed by the population of Georgia and reflected in Article 78 of the Constitution."
Earlier, Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili declared herself the country’s only legitimate authority, pledging to lead the country until new parliamentary elections are held and a legitimate parliament is established. She has repeatedly claimed that the October parliamentary elections were rigged.
Spontaneous protests erupted in Georgia following Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze's announcement on the evening of November 28th, postponing EU accession talks. Kobakhidze attributed this decision to what he described as "blackmail" and "offensiveness" from European politicians and bureaucrats. He stated that Georgia would delay negotiations until the end of 2028, aiming to join the EU by 2030.
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