Former Manchester City Footballer Mikheil Kavelashvili Sworn In as President of Georgia Amid Controversy

Mikheil Kavelashvili, a former Manchester City footballer, was inaugurated as the President of Georgia on December 29, 2024.

Kavelashvili, 53, played for Manchester City from 1995 to 1997, notably scoring on his debut against Manchester United.

Prior to his presidency, he served as a Member of Parliament for the ruling Georgian Dream party since 2016.

His election has been met with significant controversy. Critics, including outgoing President Salome Zourabichvili, have labeled the process illegitimate, alleging electoral fraud and undue influence from Russia. 

Kavelashvili's presidency has sparked widespread protests across Georgia, with citizens expressing concerns over the country's shift towards a pro-Russian stance and the suspension of European Union accession talks. 

International reactions have been critical, with the United States imposing sanctions on Georgian Dream's founder, Bidzina Ivanishvili, for actions perceived as undermining Georgian democracy. 

Kavelashvili's tenure is expected to influence Georgia's foreign policy direction, particularly its relationships with Western nations and neighboring Russia.