European Parliament Member Markéta Gregorová voiced serious concerns over irregularities in Georgia’s October 26 parliamentary elections, citing suspicious activities observed particularly in regional polling stations. Gregorová reported that instances of ballot stuffing were documented by her colleagues, and noted that in some areas, marking ink – typically used to prevent multiple voting – was not applied.
“We, unfortunately, observed highly questionable actions, especially in regions where marking ink was not used. My colleagues also witnessed attempts at ballot stuffing,” Gregorová stated. She explained that while some individuals involved were removed from polling stations, they continued to linger nearby, hoping for another opportunity to interfere.
Gregorová emphasized that, given the irregularities witnessed and the serious allegations circulating, it is difficult to say that the elections were conducted without issues. She added that the European Union’s decision in June to suspend Georgia’s EU membership bid will remain unchanged, though the new government’s actions will be closely monitored in the coming months.
“The issues we personally observed, along with the allegations being reported, are too serious to say these elections were free of problems. I think the decision to pause Georgia’s EU membership process will not change, but, as I mentioned, all eyes will be on the next steps taken by the new government,” Gregorová concluded.
