Georgia: Rose Revolution wilts

Georgia's 'Rose Revolution' of 2003 has lost its scent.

President Mikhail Saakashvili, who swept to power almost exactly four years ago in a whirlwind of fireworks, rock concerts and rose petals, is facing the biggest challenge of his tenure. The United People's Movement, which brings together eight opposition parties, has vowed to continue a wave of anti-government protests to force Saakashvili out. Thousands of people are expected to stage a major rally in Tbilisi on Friday.

The immediate cause of the unrest appears to be the arrest of former Defence Minister Irakly Okruashvili, who has accused Saakashvili of corruption and ordering the assassination of political opponents. Saakashvili pooh-poohed the claims and Okruashvili later walked free on $6 million bail after admitting -- possibly under duress -- that he had invented the claims to damage Saakashvili.

Saakashvili is prepared to take a tough line to maintain control. His political survival is at stake: his democratic credentials are looking threadbare and his fiercely anti-Russian rhetoric creates complications for Georgia internationally, making his 'Rose Revolution' government look even more delicate.

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