European Parliament member Markéta Gregorová reported witnessing numerous instances of election fraud while monitoring Georgia’s October 26 parliamentary elections. She was covering locations such as Lagodekhi, Telavi, and Tbilisi. Gregorová highlighted her first-hand encounters with issues like improper use of ballot-marking ink, ballot-stuffing, violence against international observers, and breaches of voting privacy. She noted that there were also incidents of voter intimidation, bribery, and even violence.
The MEP emphasized that if investigations confirm manipulation, individual sanctions would be a necessary response. “If we confirm these manipulations, individual sanctions must be imposed,” she stated, adding that a thorough international investigation would also be essential. While the OSCE has launched its own investigation, Gregorová argued that a broader inquiry may be needed to ensure accountability.
She concluded by urging the EU to consider both an investigation and sanctions as appropriate responses, alongside a broader discussion regarding Georgia’s future relationship with the European Union.
