Georgia's '91 referendum was for true independence, not for new master, says Parliament Speaker

Georgian Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili on Monday marked the 33rd anniversary of the referendum on the restoration of the country's independence by saying that on March 31, 1991, the people of Georgia overwhelmingly voted for independence, rejecting Soviet rule, its influence, and dictatorship.

In a social media message, Papuashvili emphasised that this decision was not about changing one master for another or seeking better servitude, but a resolute choice for complete independence and national identity.

The Speaker highlighted the significance of this event occurring exactly 70 years after Georgia's annexation by the Soviet Union, noting that the entire nation expressed a clear desire for state independence, sovereignty, and the right to determine its own future.

“For 34 years now, Georgia has been on this path, striving to strengthen its independence while overcoming the most difficult obstacles. This struggle is not over and never will be”, Papuashvili stated.

He stressed that caring for, protecting, and strengthening one's own state is the privilege and duty of every generation of Georgians.

“On March 31, the Georgian people rejected being part of the Soviet Union, its influence, and its dictates. They voted not to change their master or for better servitude, but for independence and self-identity from everyone”, he continued.

He added that the Georgian nation fully paid the heavy price for expressing its will and went through all the difficult processes required to achieve statehood.

Papuashvili asserted that no one has the right to question or jeopardize this shared achievement, nor to trade Georgia's independence for new forms of servitude, vassalage, or the influence and interests of foreign countries, regardless of how appealing subjugation to foreign powers might seem.

“Our fate should rest in our own hands!” he declared.

Drawing a parallel to more recent events, Papuashvili pointed to the parliamentary elections held last October 26, which he claimed his opponents framed as a referendum. He argued that the outcome of this election reiterated the result of the 1991 referendum, confirming the Georgian people's commitment to preserving their state independence.

Reflecting on the Soviet era's lasting impact, Papuashvili noted that 70 years under the Soviet empire had left its mark on the national mentality. He criticized those who still seek external patrons and protectors, attributing this desire to immaturity and infantilism.

“We don't need this. We need to grow up. And we have grown up”, he affirmed.

“We, the Georgian people and our government, will decide our fate, determine our friends and foes, and choose our own path. This day belongs to all citizens who stand for Georgia’s independence and sovereignty”, he concluded.