**Ruling Party Wins Georgian Election Amid Controversy**
The Central Election Commission (CEC) in Georgia has announced the final results of the country’s parliamentary elections, with the ruling Georgian Dream party winning nearly 54% of the vote. However, the opposition and many observers have raised concerns about the legitimacy of the election.
**Protests Erupt Outside CEC Building**
As the CEC meeting to announce the final results took place, protests erupted outside the building. Opposition representatives clashed with commission officials, and some protesters were arrested by law enforcement officers. The incident involved an opposition leader splashing black paint on the face of the CEC chair.
**Official Results Announced**
The CEC announced that 34% of eligible voters participated in the election, with over 53% voting for the ruling party. However, opposition forces have refused to accept the results, citing concerns about ballot secrecy and alleged manipulation.
**Opposition Refuses to Recognize Results**
Three out of four opposition parties won seats in parliament but vowed not to enter Parliament or recognize the official results. The fourth party has said they will not give legitimacy to the Parliament.
**President Unlikely to Convene Parliament Session**
The President of Georgia, Salome Zurabishvili, does not recognize the election results and is unlikely to convene the first session of the new Parliament. This means that the current Speaker of Parliament may have to take on this role instead.
**Country on Brink of Political Crisis**
With the opposition refusing to recognize the official results and many observers considering the elections rigged, Georgia’s government appears to be on the verge of a major crisis. The opposition continues to hold street rallies, but no tangible progress has been made so far.
Read More @ civil.ge