President calls for swift police response amid election tensions

President Salome Zourabichvili urged the Interior Minister to ensure faster and more effective police response to prevent tensions at polling stations, stating that such disturbances are unacceptable during elections.

“I want to address all our citizens and emphasize the importance of today’s election. The turnout is very high, which is an encouraging sign, and we expect even greater participation this afternoon. Voter engagement abroad has been impressive as well, despite challenging conditions, and I thank our compatriots for their dedication,” said the president.

She also expressed concern over incidents of violence and intimidation reported at various polling stations, including damage to media equipment and direct acts of aggression.

“There are groups mobilized solely to create tension, and it’s deeply disappointing as this affects our country’s image and reputation. I urge everyone not to be intimidated,” she added.

Unable to reach the Interior Minister directly, President Zourabichvili
publicly called for a stronger police presence.

“I ask and urge the Minister for prompt and effective police action. Such incidents should not be allowed at our polling stations. This is not who we are as a nation. Thank you to everyone, especially the media, working under difficult conditions to keep the public informed. I encourage everyone to go out and vote,” the president stated.