Chven (Georgian: ჩვენ, romanized: chven; lit.'Us') is a pro-European political party in Georgia, founded by Davit Katsarava, the leader of the anti-occupation movement and an activist. It is running in the 2024 parliamentary election with its electoral number being 23.

Chven
ჩვენ
LeaderDavit Katsarava
FounderDavit Katsarava
Mikheil Ramishvili
Kakha Gogidze
Akia Barbakadze
Founded12 August 2024
IdeologyPro-Europeanism
Colors  Dark Green
Seats In Parliament
0 / 150
Website
https://chwen.ge

History

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On August 12, 2024, Davit Katsarava, leader of the anti-occupation movement “Strength is in Unity,” announced the establishment of a new political party named “Chven” (meaning “Us” in Georgian). Known for his efforts in monitoring the occupation line along the Tskhinvali region and his strong anti-occupation stance, Katsarava hopes that “Chven” will provide a credible alternative to the current ruling party. While he did not disclose specific plans for the upcoming Parliamentary elections, he expressed confidence in the party's potential to address the public's desire for change in leadership. Katsarava emphasized that “Chven” is open to professionals and civil activists committed to national progress.[1][2][3]

The party includes notable members such as actor Kakha Gogidze, lawyer Mikheil Ramishvili, and military expert Akia Barbakadze, among others.

Katsarava's public profile has been further elevated by recent personal challenges. On May 14, during an anti-foreign agents protest, he was severely beaten by police, resulting in hospitalization and surgery. This incident was followed by a conviction on July 23 for disobeying police orders, which led to a GEL 2000 fine and a two-year suspension of his right to bear arms. Despite these difficulties, Katsarava's dedication to launching “Chven” reflects a broader movement toward political renewal in Georgia.[4][5][6]

References

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  1. ^ "Anti-Occupation Movement Leader Launches New Party". Civil Georgia. 2024-08-13. Retrieved 2024-09-13.
  2. ^ "Davit Katsarava together with Mikheil Ramishvili, Akia Barbakadze and actor Kakha Gogidze founded the political party "We"". Interpressnews. 2024-08-23. Retrieved 2024-09-13.
  3. ^ "New Political Party 'Chven' Emerges in Georgia as Election Approaches". Caucasus Watch. 2024-08-16. Retrieved 2024-09-13.
  4. ^ "Davit Katsarava Severely Beaten by Police Officers". HUMANRIGHTS.GE. Retrieved 2024-09-13.
  5. ^ "According to his wife, Davit Katsarava, a member of the "Anti-Occupation Movement", was arrested and beaten". Interpressnews. 2024-05-14. Retrieved 2024-09-13.
  6. ^ "The court imposed a fine of 2000 GEL on Davit Katsarava". Interpressnews. 2024-07-23. Retrieved 2024-09-13.