On Saturday, Georgia’s local elections concluded, returning the ruling Georgian Dream party to power amid opposition claims of systemic fraud and EU alarm about the process.
Local Elections in Georgia
Official results show the ruling Georgian Dream 81.69%. The European‑leaning Strong Georgia came second with 6.71%, followed by the “Place for Georgia” coalition at 3.68%. All other parties scored below 3%. Several opposition parties did not contest, and voter turnout was under 41%.
Opposition Announces ‘Uncompromising Fight’
Strong Georgia said the election was marred by systemic fraud, bribery, intimidation, and stated their objective was to stop Georgian Dream from consolidating power nationwide. They accused the Russian‑backed regime of excluding pro‑European parties to seize Tbilisi and other regions. The party pledged to call for new parliamentary elections and the release of political prisoners through constitutional means and uncompromising struggle.
Protests in Tbilisi
On election day, thousands gathered outside the parliament building; some attempted entry to the presidential residence. Police and protesters suffered injuries – six demonstrators and 21 officers. Five protest co‑organisers were arrested, including singer Paata Burczuladze and members of the United National Movement. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze accused the protesters of trying to topple constitutional order and blamed the EU for meddling. The Interior Ministry warned that any gatherings after Sunday would be treated as continuations of Saturday’s protests.
Doubts About ‘Transparency of the Electoral Process’
EU Vice‑Commissioner Kaja Kallas and Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos criticised the campaign, citing repeated raids on independent media, restrictive national‑security laws, imprisonment of opponents, and amendments to the electoral code. They said the Georgian authorities’ refusal to invite international observers damaged transparency and credible monitoring.
MOI: We Truly Believe Georgia Is Part of Europe
The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs echoed concerns, alleging last year’s parliamentary elections were fabricated, with official results also favoring Georgian Dream. It highlighted procedural violations and the unprecedented administrative resources used by the ruling party, arguing these undermined freedom and equality. The ministry reiterated that Georgia deserves to pursue an European and Euro‑Atlantic future, noting recent elections moved it farther from EU and NATO.
