Georgian Ministry Responds to PACE Report on Elections
The Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) has responded to a report by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) about the country’s parliamentary elections. The PACE team reported that a group of around 40 individuals vandalized their vehicle outside a polling station in Bodbe, Sighnaghi district.
According to the MIA, administrative proceedings have been initiated to identify those involved in the incident. A police unit was dispatched to the scene and prepared documentation for the case. However, the driver of the vehicle initially reported that an unidentified vehicle had caused damage to his car, not suspecting intentional wrongdoing.
The PACE report detailed unusual activity near polling stations on election day. Observers noted minivans parked outside with numerous individuals inside. The report claimed representatives of the ruling party tried to control activities inside polling stations and even interfered in conversations between observers.
PACE teams also observed “citizen observers” who were aggressive, unable to identify their organizations, and struggling to read names from their badges. These individuals admitted they were working for these organizations only during election day and were affiliated with the ruling party.
OSCE/ODIHR monitors noted indications of pressure on voters, tracking by ruling party structures and affiliates, and overcrowding at many polling stations. They also reported that some “observers” acted on behalf of contestants, mainly the ruling party.
Multiple reports have questioned the legitimacy of the election results, suggesting they do not truly reflect the will of the voters.
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