GEORGIA: The President vetoes changes to Election Code & more – 20th Jun 2024

Gamarjobat from Gracia! This is the Rorshok Georgia Update from the 20th of June twenty twenty-four. A quick summary of what's going down in Georgia.

On Thursday the 13th, the US condemned the elections in the Russian-occupied Tskhinvali region and said they didn’t recognize them, showing support for Georgia's territorial integrity. Meanwhile, a Russian court called the Georgian Legion, which has been fighting against Russian forces in Ukraine, a terrorist organization, adding to the strained relations between Russia and Georgia.

On Monday the 17th, President Salome Zurabishvili vetoed changes to the Election Code, saying they could mess up fair elections. The changes would alter how members of the election commission are selected, giving more power to the ruling party, Otsneba. President Zurabishvili believes this could ruin the democratic process by making it easier for the ruling party to control the election results.

This decision sparked a lot of debate because the opposition and many citizens fear it will lead to unfair elections. The veto might lead to more protests from the opposition, who are concerned about maintaining a fair and transparent electoral system.

Also on domestic politics, Natia Mezvrishvili slammed the Georgian Dream or Otsneba for messing up the justice system. She criticized the ruling party for appointing judges based on political loyalty rather than merit, interfering with ongoing investigations, and pressuring legal institutions to make decisions that favor the government. Mezvrishvili called for a return to constitutional order, accusing Otsneba of compromising the independence of the justice system and other legal institutions.

On Monday the 17th, Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili announced that teachers' salaries will rise by 500 GEL (about $180) in July. While this increase is meant to motivate teachers and improve educational outcomes, it might not be as significant as it sounds.

Teachers in Georgia have been earning very low salaries, and this raise, though helpful, is not a huge boost. Many teachers feel that Otsneba is trying to buy their votes before the election rather than making meaningful changes to their compensation.

That same day, Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili kicked off a big highway project linking the East and West of Georgia. The new road aims to cut down travel time and improve trade routes, helping both local businesses and international trade. However, the construction has faced delays and budget overruns, sparking discussions about project management and funding.

On another story about Garibashvili, he was criticized after congratulating Georgia’s Muslim citizens on the celebration of Eid al-Adha. You might ask why? Well, some members of the community claim it may not be a time to celebrate taking into account the political challenges the country is facing, such as the Russian Law and Georgia’s EU candidate member status

Moving on, on Thursday the 13th, the National Bank of Georgia announced that it will keep its monetary policy rate at 8 percent. The decision aims to maintain financial stability and control inflation. This rate is crucial for the country's economic environment, influencing lending rates and overall economic growth.

On Tuesday the 18th, the Georgian National Tourism Administration (or GNTA) announced that the mandatory health and accident insurance for tourists arriving in Georgia will be postponed until the 1st of January, twenty twenty six. The delay gives more time to the private sector to adapt to the new regulations, which aim to ensure that tourists have access to necessary medical care and protection during their stay, and also to the embassies and consulates to properly inform incoming tourists about the new requirements.

Also, on the topic of the Georgia’s National Tourism Administration, it has launched a new project to enhance tourism infrastructure. The initiative will focus on improving tourist facilities, and developing new attractions. This project is part of GNTA's broader strategy to stimulate tourism, and promote economic growth

Moving on, on Monday the 17th, an investigation was launched into damage to a central pipeline near Tsitsamuri. The damage has caused significant disruption, affecting gas supply to nearby regions. Authorities are working to determine the cause of the damage and ensure repairs are completed quickly to restore normal service.

On a more positive note regarding services, the Georgian Water and Power announced that their water quality fully complies with established norms and is safe to drink on Monday the 17th,

However, do not think it’s all great news, because on that same day the company also mentioned that water pipe maintenance in Tbilisi, which left half of the city with no drinking water, would take several days to complete.

On Thursday the 13th, an earthquake hit Georgia approximately at 3:30 AM, causing significant damage in some areas. Sadly, part of the village of Devdoraki was destroyed, but fortunately, there were no victims. The earthquake measured almost 4 on the Richter scale, shaking buildings and causing widespread concern.

Luckily emergency services responded quickly and authorities are now assessing the full extent of the damage and coordinating efforts to provide aid, including temporary housing and essential supplies, to those affected. Geologists are also monitoring the area for potential aftershocks.

On that same day, an emergency alert in Devdorak due to a high risk of landslides in the areai led to immediate evacuation and traffic restrictions. Residents were safely evacuated, and traffic was restricted to ensure public safety while experts assess the situation and mitigate potential hazards.

The Kazbegi checkpoint was temporarily suspended due to safety concerns linked to the emergency alert. The checkpoint's closure affects cross-border movement, and authorities have advised travelers to seek alternative routes until the situation stabilizes to ensure the safety of all travelers and personnel.

On Monday the 17th, an explosion occurred on Bochormi Street in Tbilisi, causing substantial damage to nearby buildings and injuring several people. Preliminary reports suggest it was caused by a gas leak, but an investigation is ongoing to determine the exact cause. Authorities are ensuring that all safety protocols are in place to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Onto a positive update, on Thursday the 13th, Georgia's Agriculture Minister announced that blueberry exports are expected to double this year. This boost is due to increased production and improved farming practices, and is a great contributor to economic growth and job creation.

Closing off this edition with a few short entertainment news, on Saturday the 15th, the GEMO Fest kicked off in Imereti, featuring a variety of cultural events and activities. The festival showcased local art, music, and food, aiming to promote the region's rich cultural heritage and attract tourists.

Next up, Ethno-Georgia twenty twenty-four took place in the village of Shilda in Kakheti. This festival celebrated traditional martial arts from various countries, including Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, and Norway. The event featured demonstrations of ancient combat techniques and highlighted the historical and cultural connections between Georgia and these nations. The festival had a mix of cultural performances, including folk singing, dance, and a grand concert,.

Finally, some good news for football fans! On Thursday the 13th, Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze announced of Georgia’s national football team matches in the Euro twenty twenty-four tournament at the Mikheil Meskhi Stadium will be broadcasted. This is the first time that the national team has played in the EU championship.

Aaand that’s it for this week! Thank you for joining us!

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Nakhvamdis!