PM Kobakhidze: OSCE/ODIHR mission invited to observe local elections

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Saturday announced the Government had formally invited the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) to deploy an observation mission for the upcoming local self-government elections.

A corresponding letter has already been sent to the organisation, he said during a briefing at the Government Administration.

He added the Government reaffirmed its readiness to create “all necessary conditions” for the mission to conduct a full-fledged election observation.

“The deadline for candidate registration has expired. Two opposition parties – the United National Movement and Akhali – have declared a boycott, while Lelo and For Georgia are participating in the elections, having nominated mayoral candidates in 37 out of 64 districts,” the Prime Minister noted.

Kobakhidze criticised what he described as the opposition’s “disrespect” toward ODIHR’s previous reports, as well as pressure on the organisation from both domestic political actors and some European officials. Despite this, he said, the Government decided to extend an invitation to avoid any questions regarding the legitimacy of the elections.

“We hope that, despite repeated insults and pressure, ODIHR will not refuse to send an observation mission to Georgia”, Kobakhidze said.