MEP Riho Terras calls for sanctions against Georgian officials for ‘undermining democracy’

During a European Parliament debate on Georgia, MEP Riho Terras called for imposing sanctions on individuals and organizations undermining democracy in the country, starting with the founder and Honorary Chair of the ruling Georgian Dream (GD) party, Bidzina Ivanishvili.

He highlighted Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s recent statement regarding the potential banning of the opposition as ”evidence of a dictatorship.” Terras emphasized the increasing violence and suppression of free media during elections and stressed the need for a strong international response to the ruling regime’s actions to set a precedent.

“Prime Minister Kobakhidze’s recent statement about banning the opposition, if Georgian Dream wins the upcoming elections, is not just an alarming sign but evidence of a dictatorship waiting for its opportunity. The actions of the ruling regime should not only be condemned but should also send a very clear signal through the imposition of sanctions on those individuals and organizations responsible for the erosion of democracy in Georgia. We must start with oligarch Ivanishvili to set an example,” said Riho Terras.