Thursday, November 27, 2003

MEANWHILE BACK IN COMMUNIST RUSSIA VELVETY GEORGIA

Thanks to Mary for her comments on my thoughts on the situation in Georgia.

I understand that despite $0 in the State Exchequer, the mood remains buoyant in Tbilisi. Expect the tin to be rattled around the West to help fund the next round of elections.

One matter that has really struck me in this whole crisis. All the politicians seem very keen to make sure that whatever they do is within the Georgian Constitution. Burjanadze has been scrupulous in ensuring that she does not overstep her limited powers as acting President. The Opposition wants the elections to take place within the time frame specified in the Constitution.

Now if only the rule of law could apply more generally throughout the country.

Meanwhile, Shevardnadze has been crying in his soup and blaming the Americans.

"He said he suspected the involvement of US ambassador Richard Miles, who was posted to Belgrade before the overthrow of former Yugoslav president Slobodan Milosevic in 2000. The US has denied any involvement.

'"In relation to the ambassador, I have serious... suspicions that this situation that happened in Tbilisi is an exact repetition of the events in Yugoslavia," Mr Shevardnadze said. "Someone had a plan." '

Thankfully, that "plan" involved little if any blood spilling.

Finally: "...now it has been announced that Saakashvili will be the only candidate..." The Western press has rather unhelpfully characterised Saakashvili as a hot head. Better that than dunderhead Shevardnadze.

:: Posted by pete @ 14:32