**Georgia’s President and Prime Minister Clash Over May 26 Celebrations**
The fifth President of Georgia, Salome Zurabishvili, has responded to a statement made by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze regarding the upcoming Independence Day celebrations on May 26. In her statement, Zurabishvili seemed to be addressing Kobakhidze’s warning to “be careful” and instead urged him to calm down.
According to reports, many Georgians are expected to gather spontaneously on May 26, a day when the country celebrates its independence. This event has become a platform for citizens to express their concerns about the country’s direction and identity. President Zurabishvili emphasized that the people of Georgia will not be deterred from celebrating this important national holiday.
“I want him to calm down,” Zurabishvili said in an interview on TV Pirveli. “We know where we’re going, we have a clear orientation, and we’re not losing our way.” She added that many Georgians will come together on May 26 without being called to do so, and this event is an opportunity for the nation to reaffirm its commitment to independence and European identity.
The Prime Minister’s statement seemed to be aimed at dissuading opposition groups from taking part in the celebrations. Kobakhidze warned that any attempts by the opposition to disrupt the planned events would not succeed, and he cautioned them to “be careful.” However, President Zurabishvili appeared to interpret this as a challenge to the people’s right to gather and express themselves.
**What Does it Mean for Georgia?**
The exchange between President Zurabishvili and Prime Minister Kobakhidze reflects a broader debate in Georgian society about the country’s future. The Independence Day celebrations on May 26 have become an important platform for citizens to express their opinions on key issues, including national identity, European integration, and the government’s policies.
In recent years, there has been growing concern among Georgians about the erosion of democratic values and the rule of law in the country. Many people feel that the government is becoming increasingly authoritarian, and this has led to a widening gap between the ruling party and the opposition.
The events on May 26 will likely be closely watched by international observers, as they provide an opportunity for Georgians to reaffirm their commitment to democracy, human rights, and European values. The exchange between President Zurabishvili and Prime Minister Kobakhidze highlights the challenges facing Georgian society in this regard.
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