Georgia’s election administration responds to “baseless claims” on general elections

The Georgian election administration on Thursday addressed what it called recent “unfounded statements and evaluations” over the forthcoming general elections in October and its activities. 

CEC asserted the statements, including those from outside the country, were seen as harmful to the election environment by creating “false ideas and perceptions, ultimately damaging the reputation of the election administration”.

The administration emphasized that with only five months remaining before the parliamentary elections, it was crucial to support the ongoing modernization efforts and pledged its commitment to conducting electronic elections in line with international standards. 

“Despite the transparency and openness of the election process, baseless and damaging accusations continue to circulate”, CEC noted. The election administration also reaffirmed its dedication to independence and impartiality, condemning the spread of unverified claims that it said undermined its integrity. 

Recognizing the polarized election environment, the administration stressed that those “unfounded accusations only serve to create false narratives and harm the electoral process”. 

It urged all involved parties, including local and international organizations, to remain objective and impartial, supporting fair and transparent elections.

“The administration remains open to public meetings with interested parties to provide detailed information on its activities and ensure accountability to voters”, CEC added. 

Domestic opposition representatives and several MEPs have expressed their belief that the Georgian Dream authorities had plans to fabricate the elections, claiming its move to adopt the controversial foreign influence transparent bill last month also served the alleged goal.