Transparency International Georgia denied right to observe elections

Transparency International Georgia has announced that it will be unable to observe the upcoming parliamentary elections scheduled for October 26, citing what it claims is an “illegally granted” political status imposed on the organization by the Anti-Corruption Bureau.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Zviad Koridze, a member of Transparency International Georgia, expressed frustration over the situation, saying the organization did not recognize the decision, which equates it to a political party. He emphasized that neither Transparency International Georgia nor its executive director were participating in the elections or representing any political entity.

“The court is still reviewing the annulment of the Anti-Corruption Bureau’s decision. However, the refusal to suspend the decision means that our organization is treated as a political party,” Koridze said. “This is despite the fact that Transparency International Georgia and its executive director are not participating in any elections and are not affiliated with any political party.”

He claimed the ruling had placed “undue restrictions” on the organization, including an obligation to establish a special election fund, a prohibition on accepting Western funding, and mandatory financial reporting akin to political parties.

“This absurd decision imposes political regulations on us,” Koridze added. “As a result, we are unable to fulfill our role as election observers for the upcoming parliamentary vote.”