Zurabishvili says she intends to fulfill "presidential functions" in new office

Former Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili said at a briefing in Tbilisi on Thursday, January 9, that she will work in a new office and will continue to perform "presidential functions" in it.

"I want to receive you today in this new office, which is an extension of the Orbeliani Palace (presidential palace. - Ed.). It may not look like Orbeliani's palace, but his spirit reigns here and the function of the president will continue here," 1tv.ge TV channel quoted her as saying.

She noted that the country is going through a deep crisis and parliamentary elections should be held to get out of it. Zurabishvili said she will meet with the population of the country starting with her trip to Zugdidi on January 10.

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Georgian presidential elections were held on December 14, with Georgian Dream candidate Mikhail Kavelashvili winning. After that, Zurabishvili refused to leave her post and threatened to "overthrow the regime" if no compromise was reached on the issue of parliamentary elections, the results of which she also does not recognize.

The inauguration ceremony of Mikhail Kavelashvili as the new president of Georgia took place on December 29, 2024. Zurabishvili, who did not recognize the election results, left the presidential residence and told supporters that she intended to take part in a protest on New Year's Day and visit a number of countries. Her security was removed the following day.