Mamuka Mdinaradze, the Georgian Dream party’s Executive Secretary, has asserted that Patriarch Ilia II’s endorsement of the recent election results significantly strengthens their legitimacy.
Mdinaradze described the Patriarch’s congratulatory message as pivotal, stating, “This election’s legitimacy is not only supported by international observers but also validated by the Patriarch’s position, which reflects the will of the Georgian people.”
He further praised Ilia II’s lifelong contributions to the nation, calling him a “living saint” whose support transcends political discourse. “His guidance and unwavering dedication to truth and righteousness elevate the trust in our electoral process,” Mdinaradze remarked.
The Patriarch’s message, congratulating the ruling party on its victory, has been interpreted by Georgian Dream as a critical element of the election’s broader acceptance.
On Saturday Patriarch Ilia II released a congratulatory statement following the conclusion of the Central Election Commission’s announcement of the final election results, which confirmed the ruling Georgian Dream party’s victory in the October 26 elections.