**Georgian Parliament Speaker Criticizes Opposition Over Election Remark**
Shalva Papuashvili, the Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia, has hit back at opposition parties for their comments on election procedures. Despite announcing that they would not participate in the elections, these parties have made remarks about the process, which Papuashvili sees as a continued attempt to deceive their supporters.
According to Papuashvili, the Central Election Commission (CEC) makes decisions based on international standards, which has been proven many times. He also warned that another attack on elections and democracy is being prepared. “In reality, we will see them again in the election marathon,” he said, emphasizing that it would be better for democracy if extremist parties did not participate.
Papuashvili criticized opposition groups, including ISFED and Transparency, saying they were spreading false agitation with foreign funding. He pointed out that the CEC’s decisions have been proven to follow international standards many times. The problem, he said, lies not with these organizations but with their donors, who may have ulterior motives towards Georgian democracy.
**Restrictions Imposed on Election Day**
The CEC has introduced new restrictions for persons allowed in polling stations on election day. Observers will no longer be able to request voters to show their identity documents inside the station. Additionally, it is now prohibited to use or videotape a voter’s identity document, data from the voter verification machine, or receipts printed from this machine. The choice made by the voter on the ballot is also off-limits for capture.
These changes aim to maintain the integrity and secrecy of the voting process. However, opposition parties see these measures as attempts to limit their ability to monitor and ensure fair elections.
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