**Georgia’s Democratic Future at Risk: GYLA Warns of One-Party Authoritarian Regime**
The Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) has sounded the alarm on a draft law that could lead to the establishment of a one-party authoritarian regime in Georgia. The proposed amendments to the Organic Laws on “Citizens’ Political Associations” and the “Constitutional Court of Georgia” aim to eliminate political opponents, intensify propaganda, and destroy healthy opposition.
According to GYLA, the draft law initiated by the ruling “Georgian Dream” party seeks to weaken opposition parties, create artificial barriers for new political forces, and ultimately lead to their abolition. The proposed changes would allow the Constitutional Court to ban parties that are deemed “successor” parties, meaning they share similar goals or activities with a previously banned party.
**Threats to Democracy**
GYLA emphasizes that banning a party is an extreme measure that should be used with maximum caution in democratic states. The association notes that interference in political activities, banning, or dissolving parties poses one of the greatest threats to democracy. A modern free democratic order includes multi-party systems, political pluralism, and equality among parties.
The proposed amendments would grant the Constitutional Court unlimited interpretative powers, allowing it to prohibit activities of any new party deemed undesirable for the ruling party’s interests. This could lead to persecution of specific individuals and hinder the emergence of new political forces.
**Questionable Interpretation**
GYLA raises concerns about the interpretation of what constitutes a “successor” party and the criteria the Constitutional Court will use to make such a determination. The law refers to a party’s personnel, which could become a tool for banning parties and persecuting individuals. Furthermore, the 14-day timeframe for reviewing constitutional complaints during election periods is questionable, as it may not allow for a complete and fair review of evidence.
**Conclusion**
GYLA warns that the proposed amendments are aimed against political opponents and will lead to the establishment of a one-party authoritarian regime in Georgia. The association emphasizes that democratic systems allow for party bans only with maximum caution and under strict international standards on freedom of association. The Georgian Dream party’s initiative is expected to strengthen anti-democratic propaganda, capture all democratic institutions, and ban opposition parties easily.
In conclusion, GYLA urges the Parliament to reject the proposed amendments and uphold Georgia’s democratic values. As GYLA states, “the banning of political parties is an extreme measure that should be used with maximum caution in democratic states.” The association emphasizes the importance of protecting democracy and ensuring a level playing field for all parties.
Read More @ www.interpressnews.ge
