Georgian PM confirms President Zourabichvili’s departure on December 29

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has confirmed that incumbent President Salome Zourabichvili is expected to leave her post on December 29, following the conclusion of Georgia’s recent presidential election.

Speaking at a briefing, Kobakhidze stated, “I think she will leave [the residence]. We don't expect any complications,” Caliber.Az reports per Russian media.

The December 14 presidential election was held under a new system, with the head of state chosen not by direct public vote, but by an electoral college composed of 300 electors, including members of the Georgian Parliament, autonomous republics, and local consultative bodies. The election saw Mikheil Kavelashvili, the sole candidate from the ruling Georgian Dream party, emerge victorious.

However, President Zourabichvili has openly rejected the legitimacy of the election, declaring, “No one has elected anyone. Nothing has happened", and dismissing the process as ineffective. She also expressed gratitude to those who refuse to recognize the election results.

Earlier, Russia has signaled its readiness to normalize relations with Georgia under Kavelashvili’s leadership, potentially marking a shift in diplomatic ties between the two countries.

By Vafa Guliyeva