The Georgian Dream party has nominated Mikheil Kavelashvili, a former soccer player, as its presidential candidate following disputed parliamentary elections. Amidst allegations of election fraud and a collapse in democratic standards, protests have erupted demanding new elections. The party, often criticized for its authoritarian leanings, faces international condemnation and accusations of distancing the country from European aspirations. Kavelashvili’s nomination signals a potential consolidation of power for the ruling party, which is heavily influenced by its billionaire founder Bidzina Ivanishvili. Critics warn this could further deepen Georgia's ties to Russia while complicating its EU membership prospects.