Queues at polling stations signal mounting discontent with “oligarch rule”, opposition leader Khazaradze

Long queues at polling stations underscore public frustration with the 12-year rule of Georgia’s “oligarch”, in reference to Bidzina Ovanishvili, the Honorary Chair and the founder of the ruling Georgian Dream party, Mamuka Khazaradze, a leading figure of the opposition coalition Strong Georgia, has claimed. Speaking after confirming his vote, Khazaradze said that “this cascade of lies must end,” adding, “We are winning today.”

Khazaradze pointed to high voter turnout as a sign of citizens’ determination to “reclaim the country.” “Today marks a critical day for our country, for our children’s future,” he said. “I cast my vote for a real alternative in this constituency, symbolizing the start of true reform – a step towards becoming part of Europe and securing a strong presence in the free world.”

Expressing gratitude to immigrants, journalists, and first-time voters, he commended their civic responsibility. “This election is a decisive moment for our nation,” he added, voicing confidence that Georgia will choose “freedom, Europe, stable peace, and, most importantly, a real alternative.”