EU on run-offs: well-run, with escalated negative rhetoric, allegations of intimidation of voters

The EU in Georgia has assessed Georgia’s October 30 municipal election run-offs and stated that the race  was well administered, the campaign was competitive, but the run-offs were characterised with an escalation of negative rhetoric, persistent allegations of intimidation and pressure on voters and sharp imbalances in resources, which benefited the ruling party and tilted the playing field.

 

“Following the first round, we stated that the reported malpractices must not become a norm in Georgia.

 

We deplore that these elections have been a missed opportunity in this respect. 

 

“Despite a clear assessment by the international observers, meaningful steps were not taken to address key shortcomings.

 

On the contrary, further shortcomings have emerged, especially in terms of misuse of administrative resources and violent rhetoric by Georgia’s political leaders, further fuelling an already deep political polarisation,” said the EU. 

 

The EU has called on all parties to stay engaged in the electoral process, stating that the public trust in its integrity requires an inclusive, credible and transparent recounting process and fair adjudication of complaints and appeals. 

 

“In this regard, the Central Election Commission and the courts have a key responsibility in the days ahead, ” said the statement.The embassy said that it expects that genuine efforts will be made by Georgia’s leaders to build a political climate conducive to meeting the expectations of the citizens of Georgia.