The victory of the 'Georgian Dream' alliance led by Bidzina Ivanishvili over Mikheil Saakashvili's United National Movement in the Georgian parliamentary elections marks a significant step forward for democracy in Georgia. Saakashvili's administration, despite its initial successes in modernizing the country, had veered towards authoritarianism, with recent scandals of prisoner abuse highlighting the regime's oppressive tactics. The election, deemed free and fair, reflects the Georgian people's desire for change and a break from the politics of intimidation. Ivanishvili's independent funding played a crucial role in this political shift, while Saakashvili, now in opposition, has a chance to rebuild his political legacy.

President Mikhail Saakashvili's use of force to clear protests in Tbilisi has drawn sharp international criticism, particularly from the United States. His decision to call for early presidential elections on January 5 has been praised by both the Georgian opposition and the international community, though the article suggests this may not stabilize Georgia's fragile democracy. The text questions Saakashvili's motives and the legitimacy of his actions, highlighting the potential negative impact on Georgia's democratic experiment.