The inauguration of former footballer Mikheil Kavelashvili deepened a months-long political crisis that has seen huge demonstrations in support of the European Union.

Outgoing head of state Salome Zourabishvili and protesters have declared Kavelashvili "illegitimate" and demanded a re-run of parliamentary elections in October, which they say the ruling Georgian Dream party rigged.

"Our history clearly shows that after countless struggles to defend our homeland and traditions, peace has always been one of the main goals and values for the Georgian people," Kavelashvili said after taking the presidential oath in parliament.

"Georgian Dream presented itself as the sole guarantor of stability in the country, accusing the West of trying to drag Tbilisi into the conflict in Ukraine.  

Kavelashvili, known for his far-right views, went on to praise "our traditions, values, national identity, the sanctity of family and faith". 

Minutes earlier and a few minutes' walk from the presidential palace, Zourabishvili said that although she was vacating the premises, her fight against Georgian Dream would continue.

"I remain the only legitimate president," she told the gathered protesters. | BGNES