Opposition UNM calls for investigation into Russian propagandist’s presence in Georgia during elections

The leader of the opposition United National Movement (UNM), Levan Bezhashvili, stated that the UNM has called on Georgia’s Prosecutor’s Office to initiate an investigation into Russian propagandist Alexander Malkevich’s accreditation in Georgia during the October 26 parliamentary elections. According to Bezhashvili, it is essential to clarify why the Central Election Commission (CEC) issued an official accreditation for Malkevich, who is currently wanted on criminal charges in the United States and Canada.

Bezhashvili noted that Malkevich’s presence and the apparent influence of Russian propaganda on the elections was a cause for concern, especially given Malkevich’s history of supporting Russian interests in foreign elections. He added, “Information has surfaced indicating that Russian propagandist Alexander Malkevich, who was sanctioned by the EU, US, Canada, and other countries, was in Georgia during the elections. Despite his international criminal status, the border police allowed him entry, allegedly violating Georgia’s Law on Occupation.”

He called for a thorough investigation to determine the objectives of Malkevich’s presence, as well as any possible Russian influence over the 2024 parliamentary elections. Bezhashvili argued that Russia had again used its networks in Georgia to conduct a “special operation” through its influence on Georgian political structures, reminiscent of tactics seen in 2012.

Reports confirmed that Malkevich, a key figure in a Russian propaganda network, was indeed in Tbilisi on election day. The US has placed a $10 million reward on information leading to Malkevich’s arrest for his alleged role in interfering with elections and promoting Russian interests abroad.