A representative of the monitoring coalition My Voice for Europe has accused the ruling party, Georgian Dream, of violating criminal law by alleged misusing administrative resources. Londa Toloraia, a member in the coalition, claimed the party’s actions reportedly involved illegal acquisition of personal data, voter coercion, and abuse of official power ahead of the October 26 general elections.
She said last week the coalition responded to reports that representatives of the ruling party were confiscating identity documents from public sector employees and socially vulnerable individuals with pro-opposition sentiments. This action, reportedly carried out against the will of those affected, involved the seizure of identification cards, limiting the individuals’ ability to participate freely in the electoral process.
The allegations escalated on October 12, when a journalistic investigation revealed further instances of administrative abuse. The investigation disclosed that employees in various state institutions were allegedly pressured to provide personal data for themselves and their family members to Georgian Dream. The data, which includes information on employees of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Ministry of Defense, Gardabani Municipality Hall, Oil and Gas Corporation, Air Navigation, and Airport Union, was reportedly being compiled in a secret list uncovered by journalists.
Toloraia argued the alleged practices constitute violations under multiple articles of the Criminal Code, and noted the relevant investigative agencies have yet to respond. She called on the Special Investigation Service and the Prosecutor’s Office to launch an immediate investigation, citing significant harm to both individual voters and the integrity of the electoral process.