Georgian Government Ready to Cooperate with EU Experts Amid Election Controversy

EU officials have warned that Georgia's future relations with the EU could be at risk unless the government takes steps toward strengthening its democratic processes.

Photo: Agenda.ge

The Georgian government has expressed its willingness to collaborate with European Union experts to assess the aftermath of the recent parliamentary elections, following concerns over the election results. 

Kakha Kaladze, secretary-general of the ruling Georgian Dream-Democratic Georgia party and mayor of Tbilisi, confirmed the government's readiness, noting that Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze had openly offered to recount votes if any issues arose, even the day after the election, The Caspian Post reports, citing TASS. 

Kaladze emphasized that the elections were conducted in a peaceful and competitive environment, supported by international observers, and rejected claims of election fraud, stating that there was no evidence to suggest any wrongdoing.

In response to the electoral dispute, the European Union plans to send a technical mission to Georgia to investigate possible violations. This move follows concerns voiced by EU officials, including Josep Borrell, the EU’s diplomacy chief, who expressed disappointment over the ruling party's actions, accusing them of alienating Georgia from its European aspirations.

Opposition parties, however, have rejected the election results, alleging widespread fraud, and protests erupted outside the Georgian Central Election Commission’s headquarters. 

Despite the protests, the CEC has upheld the election results, declaring Georgian Dream the winner. EU officials have warned that Georgia's future relations with the EU could be at risk unless the government takes steps toward strengthening its democratic processes.