Georgia’s top court hears lawsuit to ban main opposition parties in latest crackdown on dissent

On Wednesday, Georgia's Constitutional Court began hearings on a lawsuit filed by the ruling Georgian Dream party to ban five prominent opposition parties, critics argue this would effectively squelch political competition. The lawsuit seeks to declare the parties' activities unconstitutional and outlaw them, alleging intentions to overthrow or alter the nation's constitutional order and undermine its independence and territorial integrity. The hearing is scheduled to continue through Friday.

The opposition parties accused of being targeted include the United National Movement, Coalition for Change, Strong Georgia–Lelo, the Federalists, and Gakharia for Georgia. They collectively secured around 38% of the vote and obtained seats in the 2024 parliamentary election, which the Georgian Dream party won, solidifying its longstanding control of Georgian politics.

The lawsuit's central argument is the opposition's refusal to acknowledge the legitimacy of the elected parliament, described by plaintiffs as part of a sabotage campaign. Four of the five targeted parties abandoned their seats, asserting the election was rigged. Gakharia for Georgia remains in parliament, holding 11 out of 150 seats.

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze defended the lawsuit, stating that electoral support should not determine party legality and portraying the opposition as "liberal fascists". He emphasized that the court's ruling should focus on the constitutionality of the parties' actions rather than their electoral performance.

Opposition leaders and rights advocates vehemently condemn the lawsuit as politically motivated. They warn that a favorable court decision could lead to opposition politicians facing imprisonment or exile, as well as the disenfranchisement of countless individuals who supported opposition candidates.