US National Security official raises concerns over Georgia’s upcoming elections

Michael Carpenter, Special Advisor to the President and Senior Director for Europe at the US National Security Council, has expressed concerns regarding Georgia’s upcoming parliamentary elections. In an interview with the Georgian service of Voice of America, Carpenter stressed that while the US hoped for free and fair elections, recent actions by the Georgian government had raised alarm.

“We hope that these elections will be free and fair, but frankly, some of the actions that we have already seen are disturbing,” Carpenter said, referring to the alleged use of administrative resources and the harassment of civil society actors. He specifically highlighted a recent statement by Georgia’s Prime Minister suggesting the potential banning of opposition parties, which he deemed “absolutely against the norms of democracy”.

Carpenter reaffirmed the US’ “longstanding support” for Georgia’s sovereignty, independence, and democratic development. He acknowledged that past peaceful transfers of power had been positive milestones in Georgia’s democratic journey but warned that the upcoming October elections could “undermine these gains if they are not conducted fairly”.

“If the elections are not free and fair, it will be a serious obstacle to Georgia’s democratic growth,” Carpenter warned. He added, “Every election is crucial because each one renews democratic institutions. If these elections fall short, it will hinder Georgia’s democratic progress.”