European Commission calls for urgent investigation into election irregularities in Georgia

EU foreign policy representative Josep Borrell has called for an urgent investigation into all cases of election violations in Georgia.

‘We call on the Central Election Commission of Georgia and other competent authorities to fulfil their duty to promptly, transparently and independently investigate and assess cases and allegations of violations. These violations must be clarified and eliminated. This is a necessary step to restore confidence in the electoral process,’ Borrell and the European Commission said in a joint statement on the parliamentary elections in Georgia.

The statement notes both the ‘orderly organisation of the elections’ and the ‘tense atmosphere’.

There were frequent violations of the secrecy of the vote and some procedural inconsistencies;

there were reports of intimidation and pressure on voters, especially public sector workers;

Reports of pressure on voters, especially public sector workers, remained widespread throughout the campaign.

Along with the active tracking of voters on election day, this raised concerns about the ability of some citizens to vote without fear of repercussions;

observers reported unequal conditions for campaigners, the divisive nature of the campaign in a polarised atmosphere, and serious concerns about the impact of recent legislative changes on the electoral process.

The EU awaits the OSCE/ODIHR's final report and recommendations, which should be implemented as soon as possible.

‘It is particularly important now to establish a constructive and inclusive dialogue between all political forces,’ the statement said.

The EU calls on Georgia to adopt democratic, comprehensive and sustainable reforms in line with the basic principles of European integration. And recalls that any legislation undermining the fundamental rights and freedoms of Georgian citizens and contradicting the values and principles on which the EU is founded must be repealed.

Reprinted from https://www.newsgeorgia.ge/