Live Blog: Election Violations

26 October, 2024

updated: 26 October, 2024

Election Day

Through this blog, Transparency International Georgia will provide you with important updates on the October 26, 2024 parliamentary elections in real time. You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

The coalition observation mission of Georgian civil organizations, My Vote, is monitoring the October 26 Georgian parliamentary elections in all electoral districts nationwide.The mission involves nearly 2,000 individuals, including 150 citizens participating in monitoring elections at polling stations opened abroad. Coalition observers are monitoring the electoral process in all electoral districts, as well as at the Central Election Commission (CEC). There are 133 mobile groups operating in 73 electoral districts. Throughout the day, the observers will regularly provide us with information about the processes occurring at polling stations on election day, as well as specific violations and incidents.

Violations:

00:40 AM: My Vote: Evaluation of polling and precinct closing process, annoucement
19:00 PM: My Vote: Midterm evaluation of the voting process, announcement
17:37 PM: Voter Bribery

Near polling station 24 in district 51th in Imereti, instances of possible cash distribution were reported.

17:33 PM: Issues with Mobile Ballot Boxes

At polling stations 37 in Tbilisi’s 7th district and 47 in the 3rd district, mobile ballot boxes returned with fewer ballots than they should have contained.

At polling station 14 in Marneuli, a registrar handed a ballot to a voter with box 41 pre-colored.

17:26 PM: Attack on the National Movement Office

At the United National Movement’s central office on Kakheti Highway, individuals believed to be supporters of the ruling Georgian Dream party broke in. They have Georgian Dream flags displayed on their vehicles. As a result, a physical confrontation took place between the attackers and the representatives of the opposition.

17:22 PM: Illegal Restriction of Observer Rights

At polling station 35 in Sagarejo, our observer was denied the opportunity to record notices in the record book.

Our observers were expelled from polling stations 42 and 49 in Marneuli. At the 49th precinct, a number of violations have been observed, including other personal numbers placed in identity documents, and more than one representative of the same observation organization ("Politics and Law Observer") interfering with the commission's activities and influencing the process.

17:14 PM: Violence

There is a violent environment at Marneuli polling stations and in their surrounding areas. Aggressive individuals are obstructing members of the coalition and other observer organizations from conducting observations through violence and threats of violence. Incidents of violence have also been recorded in polling districts in Tbilisi. At polling station 1 in Tbilisi’s 5th district, our observer was physically assaulted. Cases of voting with another person's ID have been observed in Marneuli and Gardabani, to which commission members have not reacted.

17:11 PM: Violation of the Marking Check Procedure

At polling station 1 in Marneuli, there were at least five instances where voters were allowed to vote without a marking check.

17:09 PM: Voting with Improper Documentation

At polling station 3 in Gardabani, there was a suspected case of voting with another person’s ID. The commission did not respond to our observer’s remark and did not allow verification of the ID.

At polling station 5 in Marneuli, a voter cast a ballot using another person’s ID.

17:07 PM: Agitation at the Polling Station

An instance of agitation by representatives of the “Georgian Dream” party was recorded at polling station 16 in district 59.

17:05 PM: Physical Violence/Threats/Intimidation

At polling station 1 in Tbilisi’s 5th district, our observer was physically assaulted. The incident was reported to emergency services (112).

At polling station 4 in Marneuli, a “GYLA” (Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association) observer was restricted from observing, receiving verbal abuse. At polling station 16 in Marneuli, an unauthorized person was present at the station, displaying aggression toward our observer.

17:04 PM: High turnout and space-related tensions at overseas polling stations

At polling stations abroad, particularly in Europe and the US, voters are standing in multi-hour queues. The issue arises from the insufficient number of registrars at these polling stations, which, given the high voter turnout, fails to ensure timely participation. The head of the polling station in Stuttgart is warning voters that he will close the station at 8:00 p.m., and those still in line will not be able to participate in the election.

Across Europe, polling stations abroad are experiencing high turnout and long lines. The setup of polling facilities is once again inadequate in response to this high level of participation. The number of registrars is insufficient, and the commissions are struggling to manage the flow of voters. A similar situation is observed in Paris, Berlin, Prague, Brussels, Madrid, Frankfurt, London, and Stuttgart. The situation is particularly difficult in Madrid, where the layout of the building further obstructs the queue, and citizens are having to stand in line for up to two hours.

In some countries, cases have emerged where citizens were registered at the consulate but did not appear on the lists. Such instances have been recorded in Stuttgart. There was an individual case where a citizen residing abroad was registered in one country (Germany) but appeared on the voter list in Poland.

In Greece, cases of agitation near polling stations were reported.

17:00 PM: My Vote: Evaluation of ongoing voting procedures, announcement
16:09 PM: Physical Violence, Threats, and Pressure

At polling station 74 in Marneuli’s 22nd district, an unidentified gas was released, causing irritation to the eyes and respiratory tract. Earlier, at this same station, our observer was prevented from monitoring the electoral process and was threatened with physical retaliation.

16:07 PM: Presence of Unauthorized Persons at Polling Stations

At polling station 14 in Senaki’s 66th district, a fake badge was used. Additionally, attempts to re-enter polling stations for the purpose of voting were recorded at polling station 10 in Chkhorotsku’s 69th district and station 11 in Zugdidi’s 67th district.

16:01 PM: Distribution of Pre-Colored Ballots

At polling station 10 in Zugdidi’s 67th district and station 2 in Chkhorotsku’s 69th district, voters were given pre-colored ballots. Under Article 162 of the Criminal Code, it is illigal to interfere with the free exercise of will in elections, referendums, or plebiscites.

15:06 PM: Illegal Interference in Journalists’ Professional Activities

Since the opening of polling stations, nearly ten incidents of verbal and physical abuse toward journalists have been reported. In Khashuri, a journalist from Formula TV was verbally insulted. Journalists from TV Pirveli and Mtavari Channel also faced verbal abuse while covering the election process. In Akhmeta, Gela Mtivlishvili, the editor-in-chief of Mtis Ambebi, was obstructed from filming, verbally abused, and reportedly spat on, according to the journalist.

At polling station 2 in Kutaisi, a journalist from CNews was reportedly physically attacked, allegedly by activists of Georgian Dream, who became hostile after the journalist uncovered lists containing citizens’ personal data. At polling station 7 in Marneuli, an observer believed to be a supporter of Georgian Dream verbally abused journalists from Radio “Marneuli”.

According to Article 154 of the Criminal Code, it is a criminal offense to unlawfully interfere with a journalist’s professional activities.

15:04 PM: Cases of voter pressure by commission members in Marneuli and Bolnisi.

At polling station 44 in district 22 of Marneuli, registrar commission members pointed with their fingers at the ballot, indicating to voters to mark number 41. Similarly, at Marneuli station 36, a commission member directed a voter to vote for “Georgian Dream”. This is also occurring in Bolnisi, in district 23, station 56, where a commission member is instructing others to vote for number 41.

15:01 PM: Technical malfunctions and space constraints causing disruptions at overseas polling stations

In Milan, UV light has malfunctioned. Additionally, a voter who appeared in the CEC's online list was missing from the printed list at the polling station and was thus unable to vote. A similar incident was reported in Berlin as well.

In several locations, such as Athens, the space at the polling stations are insufficient, causing chaos and tension, which hinders observers’ ability to monitor the voting process effectively.

As of now, observers have filed two complaints regarding stations 25 in Prague and 38 in Athens. Three notices have been recorded in observation in Milan and Frankfurt.

14:04 PM: High turnout and space-related tensions at overseas polling stations

Regarding polling stations abroad, video materials provided by our observers confirm high voter turnout and queues at stations in cities like London, Berlin, Stuttgart, Paris, Rome, and Prague. In some locations, such as Athens, polling stations lack adequate space, causing chaos and tension, and limiting the ability of observers to carry out their duties effectively.

14:00 PM: Incidents related to marking and UV Light malfunctions at polling stations

Issues related to malfunctioning marking fluid or UV light were also recorded, along with cases of incorrect marking. The marking fluid or UV light was malfunctioning in polling stations in Tbilisi's 5th district, stations 5, 24, 28, 32, and 50 of the 6th district, and station 18 in the 10th district. In Kharagauli's 33rd district, there were cases where marking checks were omitted. In polling stations in Marneuli (station 14) and in Kaspi’s 30th district (two different stations), registrars failed to mark voters. In Gori's 32nd district, polling station 48, the marking fluid was not visible under UV light. A similar issue was found at polling station 20 in Zugdidi's 67th district. At polling station 23 in Bolnisi, multiple cases of unchecked markings were recorded.

13:55 PM: Multiple violations at polling stations

In Zugdidi’s 67th district, at polling station 10, a voter was handed a marked ballot.

In Kareli, at polling station 27, three people entered a voting booth simultaneously. The observer who recorded this violation was threatened with expulsion.

At polling stations 12 in Kharagauli and 23 in Khashuri, the envelopes are short, revealing voters’ choices. Additionally, in polling station 12 in Kharagauli, voters are casting ballots outside the booths despite directions from the registrar.

At polling station 19 in Bolnisi, dozens of instances of secrecy violations were reported. In Senaki, voting privacy was compromised at three polling stations (13, 15, and 68), in Zugdidi at two polling stations (55 and 59), and at one station in Chkhorotsku (station 6).

At polling station 22 in Gori, a voter took a photo of their ballot. At three stations in Bolnisi (4, 17, and 23), additional cardboard covers on the voting booths make it impossible to monitor possible unauthorized ballot photography.

13:36 PM: Observation restrictions and verification rule violations at the Kareli polling station

In Kharagauli's 33rd district, at polling station 28, one registrar was only accepting voters with passports. Additionally, there was an instance where a verification device emitted an alarm, but the registrar still allowed the voter access to the station. Observers are not permitted to closely monitor the verification process.

13:33 PM: Restrictions on the monitoring process and movement at polling stations

In several regions, observers are still being denied access to monitor the voting process. Particularly, in polling stations 8 and 9 of Gori's 32nd district, by the instruction of the commission chairperson, observers are not allowed to approach the verification devices or move around the station.

13:26 PM: Physical altercations and voting suspension at polling stations

In several polling stations, there have been instances of physical altercations involving observers and party representatives, both inside and outside the premises. According to our coalition’s observer, voting has currently been suspended at polling station 69 in Marneuli following incidents where certain individuals were seen stuffing ballots into the box.

13:14 PM: Technical issues and voting process disruptions at polling stations in Samegrelo.

Technical malfunctions of electronic devices continue to pose challenges in Samegrelo, where voting was halted at polling station 14 in Zugdidi’s 67th district due to a broken voting machine. Similarly, machines are out of order at polling station 59 and at station 15 in the 12th precinct, causing a suspension in the voting process. Additionally, the verification device malfunctioned at polling station 24 in Zugdidi’s 67th district. In Khobi’s 66th district, a voting machine broke down at station 20, was opened, and re-sealed. Despite damage to the equipment, the voting process continues at polling station 23 in Baghdati.

13:00 PM: Cases of voter intimidation at Gori polling stations.

Individual incidents of voter pressure were identified. Particularly, at polling stations 77 and 7 in the 32nd district of Gori, registrars were instructing voters to cast their votes for "Georgian Dream”.

12:00 PM: My Vote: Evaluation of ongoing voting procedures, announcement
11:55 AM: Tensions and monitoring restrictions at Athens polling station 38

Regarding polling stations abroad, in Athens (Station 38), a coalition observer was denied observation rights, with the commission prohibiting video recording. The situation there is tense and overcrowded.

11:49 AM: Violations of voting secrecy and campaigning incidents at polling stations

At polling station 7 in the 17th electoral district of Telavi, voters are repeatedly and intentionally violating the confidentiality of their votes.

In Akhalkalaki, agitation in favor of "Georgian Dream" has been recorded at three polling stations (1, 2, 62) in electoral district 20. Additionally, at polling station 41 in Gardabani (22.41), commission members engaged in agitation for "Georgian Dream”.

11:47 AM: Cases of unauthorized assistance in voting booths at polling stations

Cases of refusals to register complaints were recorded in District 21, Station 9 in Kvemo Kartli, and Station 46 in District 5 in Tbilisi. Since the opening of the polling stations, cases of more than one voter being present in the voting booth have been observed in several regions of Georgia.

For example, at polling station 27 in the Kvareli electoral district, the commission chairperson accompanied a visually impaired voter to the voting booth, which is prohibited by law.

11:46 AM: Cases of observer removal and denials of complaint registration at polling stations

Observers continue to face obstacles in monitoring processes throughout Georgia. Such incidents were observed at polling stations 32 and 1 in District 64 in Senaki, Station 14 in District 21 in Gardabani, and Station 5 in District 81 in Kobuleti.

Incidents of observers being expelled were also reported. Overall, “My Vote” observers were restricted from observing at 38 stations. For example, observers were expelled from stations 46 in District 5 and 41 in District 10 in Tbilisi. In addition, the United National Movement observer was expelled from Station 2 in District 79 in Kobuleti for issuing a notice.

11:45 AM: Obstruction and expulsion of observers at polling stations

Observers continue to face obstacles in monitoring processes throughout Georgia.

Such incidents were observed at polling stations 32 and 1 in District 64 in Senaki, Station 14 in District 21 in Gardabani, and Station 5 in District 81 in Kobuleti. Incidents of observers being expelled were also reported. Overall, “My Vote” observers were restricted from observing at 38 stations. For example, observers were expelled from stations 46 in District 5 and 41 in District 10 in Tbilisi. In addition, the United National Movement observer was expelled from Station 2 in District 79 in Kobuleti for issuing a notice.

Cases of refusals to register complaints were recorded in District 21, Station 9 in Kvemo Kartli, and Station 46 in District 5 in Tbilisi.

11:23 AM: Technical malfunctions and power outages at polling stations across Georgia

Technical malfunctions are also observed nationwide, with verification and vote-counting devices experiencing issues at several stations.

For instance, one of the counting devices was non-functional at polling stations 8 and 15 in District 67, Zugdidi. Power outages were reported at Station 46, District 5 in Tbilisi.

11:19 AM: Aggressive attitude toward Edison Research representatives

According to "Formula TV", election administration representatives in Samegrelo and Kakheti are obstructing "Edison Research" representatives from conducting exit polls within the vicinity of polling stations, exhibiting an aggressive attitude toward them.

11:08 AM: Ballot manipulation and technical issues at polling stations

Two ballots were inserted into the vote-counting machine at Precinct 8 of Tbilisi’s 2nd District.

At the polling stations under our observation where electronic voting is taking place, voter verification procedures were violated at 8 stations.

11:00 AM: Attempts at ballot manipulation and marking verification issues

Proper marking procedures were not followed at 68 polling stations.

An alarming tendency continues where more than one ballot is issued and placed in the box per voter. So far, 50 instances of multiple ballots issued to voters have been recorded. Cases of multiple ballots issued to a voter have been observed, for example, at the following polling stations: District 64 in Samegrelo (Station 2), Districts 14, 15, and 17 in Kakheti, District 20 in Kvemo Kartli, District 10 in Tbilisi, Districts 79, 81, and 83 in Adjara, District 47 in Racha-Lechkhumi, Districts 37 and 39 in Samtskhe-Javakheti, and District 32 in Shida Kartli. Such incidents have already numbered in the dozens. As we have noted, this trend creates high risks of election fraud. Such cases will lead to difficulties in establishing balance in the summary protocols. It is also possible that this is intended to artificially create grounds for annulling polling station results or to carry out other types of manipulation.

10:30 AM: My Vote: Evaluation of ongoing voting procedures, 10:30, announcement.
10:28 AM: Monitoring restrictions and delayed opening of polling stations abroad:

Due to the time difference, most polling stations abroad have not yet opened. Coalition observers were not permitted to observe at Athens polling stations 38 and 39. Later, an observer was allowed at station 38; however, observation at station 39 is still not permitted.

10:20 AM: Voting delays and attempts at ballot manipulation:

At the majority of polling stations where the coalition observed opening procedures, they were ready on time to receive the first voters. However, according to observers, voting began with delays at dozens of polling stations (7% of the observed locations).

Attempts to vote with two ballots were recorded in the 35th, 38th, and 37th electoral districts.

There were 18 instances of attempts to issue more than one ballot to a voter in Tbilisi (in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th, and 7th districts), Kakheti (in the 12th and 14th districts), and Batumi (in the 79th district).

It is possible that this aims to artificially create grounds for annulling the polling station results or to carry out other manipulations.

10:03 AM: Monitoring restrictions and technical issues at polling stations:

A trend has emerged whereby, at certain polling stations, the arrangement of verification devices prevents observers from monitoring the registrars' activities. Additionally, technical issues related to verification devices are being reported across Georgia. These devices are failing to register identities, requiring registrars to manually input data into the machines. This situation does not allow observers to verify whether the identification of individuals declared at the polling station is being conducted correctly. Given that there were reports during the pre-election period about the confiscation of citizens' identity cards, this trend is particularly concerning.

Restrictions on audio and video recording are being noted across Georgia. Notably, observers are not permitted to take photos or videos, even though a large number of polling stations are equipped with stationary cameras, which in some cases are directed at both the voting booths and the voting devices.

In certain regions (e.g., Kakheti, Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti), the presence of unauthorized individuals at polling stations is noted.

09:55 AM: Delayed Opening of Polling Stations and Initial Complaints:

By 9:00 AM, we had received information from 988 polling stations opened in Georgia. According to reports from "My Vote" observers, voting began late at 69 stations.

Our observers faced obstacles while monitoring the opening process at 36 polling stations. At this time, regarding the violations recorded at polling stations, 13 complaints and 17 notices have been documented in the records book.

Pre-election Period

The pre-election period for the parliamentary elections of 26 October 2024 started on August 27. Transparency International Georgia will provide live updates on alleged violations and problematic issues:

October 15-21: Participation of Azerbaijani citizens in agitation in favor of the Georgian Dream in the Kvemo Kartli region, specifically in the Dmanisi, Bolnisi, and Gardabani municipalities.

Involvement of Azerbaijani cultural, scientific, and sports figures in the pre-election campaign in Kvemo Kartli

From October 15-21, the Kvemo Kartli region, where mostly ethnically Azerbaijani citizens of Georgia live, was visited by representatives from Azerbaijan’s sports and cultural sectors. Olympic champions, professors, writers, former members of the Parliament of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and heads of various public organizations, together with local Georgian Dream representatives—including mayors and members of Parliament—visited villages to strengthen the Georgian Dream's support among our ethnically Azerbaijani fellow citizens. These activities constitute a violation of Article 45(4)(f) of the Election Code, which prohibits foreign citizens from participating in pre-election campaigning.

October 23: Attack on Levani Gogichaishvili, One of the Leaders of “Gakharia for Georgia,” in a Subway Station

Levani Gogichaishvili, one of the leaders of the political party “Gakharia for Georgia,” was attacked near the “Polytechnic” subway station. According to the party, Gogichaishvili was on his way to participate in a program on the “PalitraNews” television channel when he was attacked by around two dozen unknown individuals.

Violence against members of political parties negatively impacts the pre-election environment. It is important to determine the circumstances of the case under a comprehensive and objective investigation and to quickly identify all responsible individuals.

October 21: Ministry for Internally Displaced Persons from Abkhazia Engages in Pro-Government Agitation on Facebook

On October 21, the Ministry for Internally Displaced Persons from the Autonomous Republic of Abkhazia posted on its Facebook page a message from the minister, where he mentions meeting with internally displaced persons in Kobuleti together with Gia Tsxonia, a candidate for the Georgian Parliament from “Georgian Dream,” and Zotne Ananidze, a candidate for the Supreme Council of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara from the same party.

This meeting, attended by two candidates of the ruling party, was essentially a pre-election event. Sharing information about this type of meeting by a state agency constitutes the use of administrative resources for the benefit of the ruling party, which is prohibited by the Election Code.

October 20: Illegal confiscation of identification documents from employees of the Special Tasks Department in Zugdidi and misuse of administrative resources

According to an employee of the Special Tasks Department in Zugdidi (who disclosed these facts to our representative in a private conversation), the department is requesting them to submit lists containing personal data of family members and relatives who intend to vote for the “Georgian Dream” party, while those with opposition sympathies are being asked to hand over their identification documents.

The circumstances indicate that the confiscation of identification documents and collection of voters’ personal data has a widespread and systematic nature across the country. The involuntary confiscation of identification documents violates current legislation, including Georgia's Law “On Personal Data Protection”. Additionally, the illegal obtaining, storage, use, distribution, or other means of making personal data accessible is punishable under criminal law. This also reveals violations such as interference with voter will, breach of voting secrecy, and abuse of official authority. These facts once again confirm that the large-scale scheme of vote-buying and illegal mobilization described in the 2022 study published by “Transparency International - Georgia” and “International Society for Fair Elections and Democracy” is still actively operating. Swift, thorough, and impartial investigation of all such cases is essential.

October 19: Use of administrative resources for election campaigning during Teacher’s Day celebration in Gardabani

According to the news portal QvemoQartli.ge, Teacher’s National Day in Gardabani was celebrated on October 19 instead of the official date (October 27). According to the source, this event was organized by the City Hall, attended by teachers from all schools, and featured banners in the colors of the “Georgian Dream” party. Teachers received gifts accompanied by blue cards with number “41” and congratulatory text from Vice Governor Giorgi Shinjikashvili and Parliament member and ruling party’s current parliamentary candidate Savalan Mirzoev. It’s also noteworthy that both Giorgi Shinjikashvili and Gardabani Mayor David Kargareteli posted information about the event on their social networks, with the mayor confirming that the event was conducted with the support of the aforementioned individuals.

According to the Election Code, it is prohibited to use budget-funded events for election campaign purposes. In this case, the placement of “Georgian Dream” supporting banners and distribution of flyers at an event organized by the City Hall represents pre-election campaigning with budget funds, as well as, creates the perception that the event is organized by the ruling party. According to the Election Code, such an activity is considered the use of administrative resources and carries a punishment of up to 4000 GEL.

October 19: Instances of Alleged Illegal Processing of Voters’ Personal Data and the Confiscation of Identity Cards

According to information reported in the media, several instances of illegal processing of voters' personal data and the confiscation of identity cards have been recorded. For detailed information see Local Monitoring Organizations’ Statement.

It is particularly alarming that the activists of the ruling party are asking some voters/persons employed with budgetary funding (as well as certain individuals employed with budgetary funding to their subordinates) to hand over their identity documents. Obstructing the exercise of will in elections and influencing the will of the voter are crimes outlined in Articles 162 and 164⁴ of the Criminal Code of Georgia, and according to Article 157 of the same Code, it is a crime to illegally obtain, store, use, distribute, or otherwise make available personal information on private life or personal data that results in considerable damage. The mentioned facts may also encompass crimes outlined in other articles of the Criminal Code. Furthermore, the collection, storage, processing, and transfer of voters’ personal data is a flagrant violation of the Law of Georgia “On Personal Data Protection”. In addition, Article 49 of the Election Code of Georgia prohibits the involvement of a subordinate or otherwise dependent person in activities that contribute to the nomination and/or election of a candidate.

October 17: Damaging banners displayed at the “United National Movement” Kutaisi office

According to information posted on social media by Khatuna Arveladze, the chairperson of the “United National Movement's” Kutaisi organization, their office banners have been actively damaged over the past two days. She also uploaded photographic evidence of the mentioned incident.

To ensure that elections are held in a peaceful and fair environment, it is critically important for all parties to have the opportunity to conduct their election campaigns in a safe environment. It is essential to establish the circumstances of the case under thorough and objective investigation and to quickly identify all responsible individuals.

October 17: “Gakharia for Georgia” party presented evidence that casts doubt on the neutrality of commission members at different levels

At a briefing, Natia Mezvrishvili, the Deputy Chairperson of the party “Gakharia for Georgia”, stated that the Central Election Commission is not independent and is composed of individuals connected to the “Georgian Dream” in various ways. Mezvrishvili presented evidence showing that party members and their relatives hold positions as election commission members at both precinct and district levels. For example, in Marneuli’s polling station 22.01, the Precinct Election Commission chairperson position is held by the head of the Marneuli City Assembly apparatus, while her son serves as a commission member appointed by Georgian Dream at the same polling station, and her daughter-in-law holds the commission secretary position also at the same polling station. Additionally, at the same precinct, the son of the Deputy Chairman of the Marneuli City Assembly serves as an election commission member. Besides close ties to the ruling party, the evidence showed that these commission members don't hesitate to openly engage in agitation in favor of the “Georgian Dream”.

Such political influence calls into question the commission’s ability to act impartially in the October 26 elections. The Election Code strictly prohibits election commission members at all levels from participating in election campaigning. It's even more alarming when the commission chairperson participates in the agitation, who should be appointed by the superior commission based on professional criteria. Moreover, the Code of Ethics for Officials of the Election Administration of Georgia requires all levels of officials to be politically neutral, requiring members to act independently and avoid conflicts of interest. Composition of commissions with individuals connected to political unions violates these principles. Maintaining political neutrality is a crucial prerequisite for ensuring fair and transparent elections.

October 17: In Rustavi, cleaning service employees are having their ID cards confiscated allegedly on orders from the “Georgian Dream” headquarters

On October 17, “Mtavari Channel” aired a journalistic experimental story showing that in Rustavi, dozens of cleaning service employees had their identification cards confiscated by their supervisors on orders from the “Georgian Dream” headquarters. In the story, cleaning service employees specify how many people are in their brigade and confirm they were informed about giving away their ID cards. Additionally, one of the Rustavi cleaning service group supervisors confirms that they did indeed confiscate ID cards from their subordinate employees.

The circumstances indicate that the confiscation of identification documents and collection of voter personal data has a large-scale and systematic nature throughout the country. The involuntary confiscation of identification documents violates current legislation, including the Law of Georgia “On Personal Data Protection”. Moreover, the illegal obtaining, storage, use, distribution, or otherwise making personal data accessible is punishable under criminal law. It is necessary to conduct a swift, thorough, and impartial investigation of all such incidents.

October 15: Zugdidi City Hall refuses to allocate spaces for election events to opposition parties that “Georgian Dream” has already used for pre-election meetings

On October 15, Zugdidi City Hall refused to provide the assembly hall of the “Youth Palace” to the regional leader of the party “Droa” for meeting with voters. In a letter sent to the party, the City Hall indicates that only the concert hall of the “Arts and Culture Development Center” is allocated for election events. Nevertheless, “Georgian Dream” used the “Youth Palace” on October 12, and the concert/assembly halls of the “United Arts Schools” on October 2 for electoral purposes.

According to the Election Code, it is prohibited to use premises occupied by organizations funded from the State Budget of Georgia, provided that other political parties are unable to use the same or similar premises under the same conditions.

October 15: TV “Pirveli” investigative program reveals the use of administrative resources and related crimes in public institutions

On October 12, 2024, TV “Pirveli” investigative journalism program “Nodar Meladzis Shabati” aired a story about secret lists of employees and their family members from ministries, municipalities, other public institutions, state and government-affiliated private companies. The described facts confirm how public officials are instructed and forced to collect and forward their personal and family members’ personal data to the ruling party to ensure these individuals vote in favor of the “Georgian Dream” in elections.

The facts described in the story reveal signs of various types of crimes including: unlawful obtaining and use of personal data; influencing voter will and violation of voting secrecy; abuse of official power. The material shown in the story is another piece of evidence that the large-scale scheme of voter bribery and illegal mobilization described in the 2022 study published by “Transparency International - Georgia” and “International Society for Fair Elections and Democracy” is still actively operating. For more details on the material distributed by TV “Pirveli”, see the statement by “Transparency International - Georgia”.

October 13: The “United National Movement” office in Varketili was vandalized

On October 13, the “United National Movement” (UNM) office in Varketili was vandalized. The Chairman of the Political Council of UNM, Levan Khabeishvili, released photos showing the office's walls and furniture, which appear to have been painted by spray paint.

October 13: The Tbilisi City Court fined TV company “Formula” with 5,000 GEL, following an appeal by the Communications Commission, for recognising the party “Gakharia for Georgia” as a qualified subject

The Tbilisi City Court fined TV company “Formula” with 5,000 GEL, following an appeal by the Communications Commission, for recognising the party “Gakharia for Georgia” as a qualified subject and also ordered “Formula” to remove free political ads of Giorgi Gakharia's party from the air. The Communications Commission deemed “Formula’s” decision to grant the party “Gakharia for Georgia” the status of a qualified subject as unlawful. “Formula” had relied on research by Edison Research, which showed the party had over 4% support. However, the Commission found “Formula” in violation because it did not submit documents verifying the results of the public opinion survey.

According to the Election Code, a broadcaster has the right to recognise a political party as a qualified election subject if, based on a poll conducted across the entire territory of Georgia within one month before the election, the party has at least 4% voter support. The Communications Commission received detailed information from "Formula" confirming Edison Research's poll's compliance with legal requirements. The Commission’s demands for “Formula” to verify the credibility of the survey using non-existent legal criteria are unclear and unlawful. Even the “Media Ombudsman” considers the decision of the Communication Commission illegal.
This decision further strengthens the argument that the Communications Commission is not politically neutral during the pre-election period and is acting in favor of the ruling party.
During this pre-election period, the Commission has repeatedly imposed financial sanctions on critical broadcasters, including a 2,500 GEL fine on “Mtavari” on August 15, and multiple violations issued on September 13, September 19, and October 9, against “Mtavari”, “TV Pirveli”, and “Formula”, with each being fined 5,000 GEL three times.

October 13: Attempt of a serious crime against a member of the “Gakharia for Georgia” Party in the Village of Kksani

Natia Mezvrishvili, the deputy chairperson of the “Gakharia for Georgia” party, stated that on October 12, a serious crime occurred against their party member, Lia Kochishvili, in the village of Kksani, located in the Mtskheta Municipality. According to her, Giorgi Murjikneli, a member of Dimitri Khundadze's group, attempted to hit Kochishvili, who often exposes Khundadze in corruption, with his car. This incident occurred after Kochishvili conducted an election campaign in Ksani.

October 12: Necessary equipment was not allowed for the “United National Movement” pre-election event at Vake Park

On September 12, at 9:00 PM, the “United National Movement” planned to hold a pre-election event in Vake Park, Tbilisi. According to the statement of one of the party leaders, Giorgi Vashadze, the “Georgian Dream” is obstructing their organized meeting with 10,000 supporters in Vake Park. He stated that the authorities are hindering the delivery of chairs, equipment, and a generator.

According to the Election Code of Georgia, during the pre-election campaign, the municipality bodies shall support political parties/electoral subjects to organize and hold meetings and gatherings with voters, public debates and discussions, assemblies and manifestations, and to ensure the safety of those events.

October 11: An employee of RMG company claims that the company is forcing them to vote in favor of the “Georgian Dream”

An employee of RMG from Kazreti contacted the online media platform “Mautskebeli” and provided information about criminal offenses and potential election fraud. “At work, we were asked for our and our family members' personal data, saying it was needed for the elections. Those who refused were threatened, told they would have problems with their superiors”. According to the source, this is not the first time this year where the company has used such coercion against employees and their family members: “They did the same in the previous elections, then they would call us one by one and say that after you mark your vote and go out; first, you must show the “Georgian Dream” observer whom you voted for, then you should put it in an envelope and drop it in the box. It will happen the same way now; this is the situation we are in, and no matter where you say something about this, they are everywhere”. According to the source, in some cases, employees had their identification cards confiscated.

The RMG company is a major donor to the “Georgian Dream” party, providing funds to the ruling party through third parties, which is a violation of the law. The information disseminated by “Mautskebeli” indicates signs of multiple criminal offenses, violating voters' rights to make choices based on their own views in a free and equal environment, as well as threatening the secrecy of their votes, which is guaranteed by the Constitution. It is critically important to conduct a swift and thorough investigation into potential crimes, including the identification of possible coercion of employees by RMG's management.

October 11: The government attempts to influence the free will of voters through illegal methods

According to reports, ruling party representatives are unlawfully seizing personal identification documents from public sector employees and individuals in vulnerable social groups against their will. The aforementioned action is expected to be large-scale in scope. A similar incident took place in Zugdidi, Kvareli, Kutaisi, and Tbilisi.

The Constitution of Georgia unequivocally guarantees the right of every individual to make their electoral choice freely, without coercion, in an environment of equality and secrecy. The government's use of such tactics appears designed to intimidate voters, leading them to believe that the secrecy of their vote on election day will not be preserved. Moreover, this behavior could be an attempt to manipulate the outcome of the election itself. Any unlawful confiscation of personal identification documents, particularly without the consent of the individual, represents a blatant violation of the law, including the Georgian Law on the Protection of Personal Data. In addition, the illegal acquisition, retention, use, dissemination, or provision of access to personal data constitutes a criminal offense. It is imperative that these circumstances be investigated promptly, thoroughly, and impartially.

October 11: Disinformation campaign against representatives of monitoring organisations

A new website, created by unidentified sources and purportedly related to “Georgian Dream”, “USAმშობლო” is attacking civil society representatives, including Eka Gigauri, the director of “Transparency International - Georgia”. The “USAმშობლო” page suggests, as the name implies itself, that these people purportedly serve the interests of a foreign country, in this case the United States and seeks to harm the reputation of these active individuals. Similar disparaging posts are being distributed on the same name's social media page, with individual posts. It should also be highlighted that the individuals targeted on the website are part of the election monitoring missions for October 26 parliamentary elections.

Referring to non-governmental organisations’ representatives in such an insulting manner only serves to increase distrust in them. Presenting them in this manner in public marks a continuation of the ruling party's assault against local monitoring organisations, as well as another attempt to harm the monitoring organisations' reputation. Such efforts contravene the fundamental norms of the democratic electoral process, which require the free and impartial participation of civil society. These disinformation tactics weaken public trust in the election process and undermine a free and fair pre-election environment.

October 9: In Tbilisi, representatives of the "For Georgia" party were attacked while putting up election posters, and their campaign materials were damaged.

In Tbilisi, on Amagleba Street, unknown individuals obstructed the representatives of the "For Georgia" party from putting up pre-election campaign materials, as well as tore down the posters they had already put up. According to party representatives, the attackers were activists of the "Georgian Dream" party.

To ensure that elections are held in a peaceful and fair environment, it is critically important for all parties to have the opportunity to conduct their election campaigns in a safe environment. By law, it is prohibited to remove, tear down, cover, or damage campaign materials. To prevent this incident from encouraging violence against opposition party supporters and the destruction of campaign materials, it is essential to quickly identify the attackers and hold them legally accountable.

October 9: The Communications Commission continues to fine critical broadcasters.

The Communications Commission has deemed "Mtavari Arkhi," "TV Pirveli," and "Formula" to be in violation of regulations and has issued administrative offense reports against them. The reason for this decision is the broadcasters' refusal to air a "Georgian Dream" video that speculatively uses the Ukrainian people's tragedy for election purposes. The offense reports have been sent to the City Court, which is highly likely to impose a fine of 5,000 GEL on each broadcaster.

During the current pre-election period, the Communications Commission has repeatedly imposed financial sanctions on critical broadcasters. For instance, on August 15, "Mtavari Arkhi" was fined 2,500 GEL, and on September 13 and 19, violation reports were filed against "Mtavari," "Pirveli," and "Formula," each facing fines of 5,000 GEL.

We believe that the Communications Commission should take into account the gravity of the context and, on the one hand, not hinder the functioning of the broadcasters with its decisions, and on the other hand, avoid becoming a tool for government propaganda (see the joint statement by Transparency International Georgia and "Georgia's European Orbit" for more details).

October 9: According to Ana Tsitlidze, the chairperson of the United National Movement's Zugdidi organization, opposition-minded voters in the Zugdidi municipality are having their identity cards taken away.

Ana Tsitlidze, the chairperson of the United National Movement's Zugdidi organization, stated that opposition-minded citizens in Zugdidi, or those suspected of not voting for the "Georgian Dream" in the elections, are having their identity cards confiscated. Tsitlidze also named six individuals involved in the confiscation of identities, including police officers, a member of the Zugdidi City Council, a representative of the mayor in the administrative unit of the village of October, as well as the father of David Kodua, a candidate for the MP from Samegrelo.

The confiscation of an identity card from a voter and hindering their participation in elections is a criminal offense, and the potential organized nature and scale of these actions is particularly alarming. It is essential to conduct a prompt, thorough, and impartial investigation into the circumstances mentioned in the statement.

October 9:Who funds the Georgian Dream? — Doctor Goods LLC, Inter Construction LLC

Doctor Goods LLC, where he owns 33%, received 3.6 million GEL from direct state procurements between 2020 and 2022, plus 2.1 million GEL from tenders. Inter Construction LLC, fully owned by Naskidashvili, secured 1.3 million GEL through state tenders between 2021 and 2024. In total, his companies have received more than 7 million GEL from state procurement.

Meskheti Meprinveleopba LLC, where Naskidashvili owns 17.5%, received 307,000 GEL from state agricultural programs between 2016 and 2023. Saguramo Meprinveleoba LLC, in which he holds a 40% stake, also received 121,000 GEL from agricultural programs in 2020, along with 10,000 square meters of land through direct privatization from the state.

October 7: “Georgian Dream” secret election campaigns were held at the expense of the municipalities’ budgets

According to the published material of the “iFact” investigative journalists, “Georgian Dream” actively uses municipalities’ budgets funds for organising various cultural events in the pre-election period, which, in fact, constitutes secret election campaigning.
- For such events, municipalities announced a total of 219 tenders for various events, for which a total of 7.8 million GEL was spent;
- In the period of August 1 to October 1, a total of 67 events were planned and held, half of which were dedicated to celebrating the day of the city or town;
- The dates for some of these holidays were changed and they are celebrated right before the elections, moreover, some new ones were also invented;
- The election messages of the ruling party are actively heard on these events, especially on the topic of “peace”;
- Funds spent on events have increased significantly, compared to previous years;
- 88% of the procurements are done through a simplified procurement, without contest;

The investigation of the “iFact” once again confirms that the use of administrative resources in favour of the ruling party has a systemic nature, which, in turn, creates the basis for an unfair and unequal pre-election environment. The tendencies described in the investigation are further confirmed by the cases described throughout this Live Blog as well, which documents the occasions where state/local budget funds were used to finance the events used for the agitation of the “Georgian Dream” candidates.

October 7: The Minister of Internal Affairs decided, that Zviad Kharazishvili, individual sanctioned by the US, will participate in ensuring election security

On September 30, 2024, Georgia's Minister of Internal Affairs, Vakhtang Gomelauri, issued an order “to implement some measures to ensure the holding of the Parliamentary elections on October 26, 2024 in a free, safe, and peaceful environment”. According to the order, “groups responsible for the prevention of violations of law and response to these violations” - the so-called “territorial groups” will be formed in Georgia's regions and in Tbilisi, in recruitment of which Zviad Kharazishvili (“Khareba”) will participate, individual sanctioned by the U.S. Department of the Treasure for serious violations of human rights.

Providing security for all parties involved on election day is a critically important task. For this purpose, formation of the so-called “territorial groups” was also a case in previous years; however, unlike previous years, according to the new order, territorial groups include, among others, a representative assigned by the head of the Ministry's Special Tasks Department, rather than the head of the appropriate territorial division of the Ministry's Special Tasks Department. Moreover, Zviad Kharazishvili (“Khareba”), who has been sanctioned by the U.S. Department of the Treasure for serious abuses of human rights, continues to be the head of the mentioned department, who is also notorious for his violence towards protest participants.

October 7: Nukri Dolidze, the big donor of “Georgian Dream”, donated 58,000 GEL to the party, his companies have received public procurement contracts worth 164 million GEL in the last three years.

On August 2, 2024, Nukri Dolidze, the owner of a 25-25% share of LLC “Monolith 2005” and LLC “Bondi-2009” and a former member of the Batumi City Council, donated 58,000 GEL to the ruling party. Nukri Dolidze is a big donor to “Georgian Dream”, he donated 168,000 GEL to the party in the last three years. Dolidze's business partners, shareholders of “Bondi-2009” LLC, Otar Putkaradze and Davit Devadze, have donated a total of 257,000 GEL to “Georgian Dream”. In 2010-2021, the mentioned two companies received up to 130 million GEL from public procurements, 68% of which - under non-competitive conditions. From 2021, in just 3 years, Dolidze's companies received 164 million GEL in public procurements.

Over the years, the relationship between the major donors to the “Georgian Dream” and public procurements and current state programs for economic subsidies has become apparent. In many cases, the recipients of huge sums given by the government to businesses are the donors to the “Georgian Dream”. These factors raise a legitimate suspicion of systemic corruption, which severely undermines the fair electoral environment.

October 6: Attack on “National Movement” representative in Village of Kardenakhi

On October 6, in the village of Kardenakhi, representatives of the “United National Movement” were attacked while conducting a pre-election campaign. According to Irakli Pavlenishvili, a member of the party, they were attacked by 10 people. As a result of the attack, the regional leader of the party, Levan Metreveli, was injured and taken to the hospital for medical assistance.

Interference in the pre-election campaign and violence against political party members have a negative impact on the pre-election environment. The law enforcement agencies are required to investigate the circumstances of the case and identify the responsible person in a timely and objective manner.

October 6: The ruling party uses extremely unethical election ads for political purposes

“Georgian Dream” requests that TV broadcasters air an election video, in which the tragedy of the Ukrainian people is used speculatively for election purposes. Despite the fact that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine condemned the placement of election banners with the same content throughout Georgia, and the EU ambassador in Georgia strongly criticised them, the “Georgian Dream” further activated the mentioned campaign and requested broadcasters to air the videos. While critical TV stations - “Formula”, “Mtavari Arkhi” and “TV Pirveli” - refuse to air it, pro-government TV stations - “Imedi”, “PosTV” and “Rustavi 2” - have already aired the advertisement. The video has also been aired by “Public Broadcaster”.

We believe that the “Georgian Dream” should refrain from manipulating the tragedy of the Ukrainian people for political and electoral purposes, as well as from using advertisements with degrading, unethical content. Also, we call on the Communications Commission to take into account the severity of the context and with its own decision, on the one hand, not to hamper the functioning of the broadcasters, and on the other hand, not to facilitate and become propaganda tools of the ruling party (for more details, see “Transparency International-Georgia's” and “Georgia's European Orbit's” joint statement).

October 4: In Gardabani, "Georgian Dream's" three candidates for parliament used the local budget-funded event for pre-election agitation

On October 4, “Gardabnoba 2024”, an event organised by Gardabani City Hall, “Georgian Dream” candidates for parliament (from the election party list) delivered speeches, and awarded the honorary people from Gardabani themselves. These candidates were: Zaur Dargal, Savalan Mirzoev, and Irakli Shatakishvili. During their speech, candidates spread traditional “Georgian Dream” messages from the stage, as footage of infrastructure projects was shown on the stage's screen behind them.

Attendance of a candidate for parliamentary membership at a budget-financed event represents pre-election campaigning with budget funds, as well as, creates the perception that the event is organised by the ruling party.
According to the Election Code, such an activity is considered the use of administrative resources and carries a punishment of up to 4000 GEL.

October 3: “Georgian Dream” received 11 million GEL in donations over 9 months

From January 1 to September 30, 2024, “Georgian Dream” received donations totalling 11,293,166 GEL, including 2,088,500 GEL from businessmen operating in Adjara. In the period of 2012-2024, businesses associated with the donating businessmen got more than 556,090,031 GEL from public procurements and construction licences totalling more than 3,000,000 square metres. Find out more

October 3: “Alma Plus” refused to display advertising banners for “National Movement”, which is unlawful and discriminatory

Despite their existing agreement, the “Alma Plus” company declined to install a pre-election banner for the “National Movement”. The refusal was based on the advertisement's content, which was directed against the ruling party. “Alma Plus” holds an exclusive 15-year right to place outdoor advertisements in Tbilisi.

The decision of the “Alma Plus” is both unlawful and clearly discriminatory. In 2021, the company had no reservations displaying so-called “Bloody banners” and claimed they did not interfere with the content of advertisements. Furthermore, during this pre-election period, banners commissioned by “Georgian Dream”, depicting Ukraine's destroyed cities, have been displayed without issue. The refusal by “Alma Plus” significantly hinders the “National Movement’s” pre-election campaign, which, in turn, harms the overall pre-election environment in the country.

September 29: A“Georgian Dream” candidate for parliament Anton Obolashvili uses budget-funded events for pre-election agitation

On September 29, the “Poetry Public Festival - Shotaoba-2024” took place in the village of Rustavi, Aspindza municipality. Anton Obolashvili, the “Georgian Dream’s” candidate for parliament, and other officials complimented the public on the festival. Obolashvili has used budget-funded events for his election campaign before. On September 12, in the village of Tmogvi, Aspindza Municipality, a new kindergarten was built and Anton Obolashvil cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony, and following the inauguration ceremony, he continued the rally with the party flags of “Georgian Dream”. On September 10, Obolashvili attended the inaugural ceremony for Adigen's newly renovated sports and dancing facility.

September 29: Illegal use of administrative resources in Adjara- a “Georgian Dream” candidate for Parliament Archil Beridze attends budget-funded events in

On September 29, Archil Beridze, parliamentary candidate for the “Georgian Dream”, attended budget-funded events as part of the “Khelvachauri Days 2024” initiative. He attended the celebration along with the heads of the autonomous republic and the municipality. The photo material published by Batumi City Hall clearly shows that the “Georgian Dream” candidate was involved in the event by the organisers.

Archil Beridze does not currently hold a public position; he is a candidate for a member of parliament nominated by the ruling party, so his participation in the budget-funded activity represents a use of budgetary funds for the ruling party's candidate’s campaign, as well as creating the perception that the event is organised by the party.

September 29: Illegal use of administrative resources in Gardabani - a “Georgian Dream” candidate for Parliament Irakli Shatakishvili and other officials opened a new leisure facility

On September 29, Irakli Shatakishvili, a “Georgian Dream” candidate for parliament, and other officials ceremonially opened a new leisure facility in Sartichala village, Gardabani municipality. The project was funded by the local budget and cost up to one million GEL.

September 29: Illegal use of administrative resources in Oni - a “Georgian Dream” candidate for Parliament Gocha Enukidze attends the opening of a new wrestling hall and presents awards to the tournament winners

On September 29, a new wrestling hall was opened at the sports school complex in Oni's Beer Sheva Park. Gocha Enukidze, a “Georgian Dream” candidate for parliament, attended the opening and presented the wrestling tournament winners with awards.

September 28: Illegal use of administrative resources in Khulo - “Georgian Dream” candidates Anzor Bolkvadze and Vakhtang Beridze attend the opening of a new sports hall

On September 28, a new sports school opened in Khulo’s Ghorjomi village. Anzor Bolkvadze, a “Georgian Dream” Parliamentary candidate, and Vakhtang Beridze, a Supreme Council candidate, attended the opening ceremony.

According to the Election Code, such an activity is considered the use of administrative resources and carries a punishment of up to 4000 GEL.

September 27: The owners of “Dagi+” LLC donated 166,000 GEL to “Georgian Dream” in 2024. The company has received procurements of 198 million GEL

All three shareholders of “Dagi+” LLC are large donors to the ruling party. In 2024, they contributed a total of 166,000 GEL to “Georgian Dream”: Merab Kipiani (33%) donated 55,000 GEL in April 2024; Giga Paliani (33%) contributed 60,000 GEL on August 7, 2024; and Davit Gogrichiani (34%) donated 51,000 GEL, also on August 7, 2024. The company’s primary business is road construction, for which it has won state tenders totalling 198 million GEL over the last 12 years. “Dagi+” LLC mostly constructs roads in the Oni municipality and has obtained a 5-year licence for sand and gravel mining in the Chiora village area on the Rioni River.

September 25: The Anti-Corruption Bureau flagrantly violated the law by designating “Transparency International - Georgia”, “Choose Europe”, and other individuals as entities with declared electoral goals

On September 25, the Anti-Corruption Bureau designated “Transparency International - Georgia”, its executive director Eka Gigauri, “Choose Europe”, and its board members Khatuna Lagazidze, Lela Jejelava, Giorgi Papelishvili, Nikoloz Shurghaia, Shalva Dzebisashvili, Giorgi Taktakishvili, Sofiko Chkonia, Ivane Chkonia and Giorgi Rukhadze as entities with the declared electoral goals and imposed on them the restrictions and rules applicable to political parties. It is important to note that none of the aforementioned entities have declared a goal of participating in the elections, and after September 26, 2024, when the deadline for parties to submit their lists to the CEC ends, these persons will even be unable to participate.

We believe that the Anti-Corruption Bureau's decision is unlawful and represents the use of executive administrative resources for pre-elections. Moreover, the Bureau's behaviour can be regarded as an attempt to impede election-observing missions.

September 19: Communications Commission and Court Impose Unfair Fines on Critical Media

On September 19, the Communications Commission issued an administrative offence statement for the second time in a week to the TV companies “Mtavari”, “Pirveli”, and “Formula” for failing to place “Georgian Dream’s” pre-election advertisement. According to the first statement, the court imposed on each of them fines of 5,000 GEL. The ruling party's pre-election campaign depicts representatives of non-governmental organisations, including the 2024 parliamentary election monitoring organisations, in an extremely unethical, unfair, and misleading context.

We believe that the pre-election video of “Georgian Dream” does not meet the requirements of the law, and that the Communications Commission's and the court's findings are unjustified, resulting in a significant financial blow to the critical media. The inclusion of non-governmental organisation representatives in the election video marks the continuation of the ruling party's campaign against local monitoring organisations and another attempt to to cause reputational damage to monitoring organisations.

September 19: The mobilization of employees of budgetary organizations for the “Georgian Dream” party event in Rustavi

On September 19, a party event of “Georgian Dream” was held in Rustavi. Teachers employed in schools and kindergartens, as well as public servants, attended the meeting. Prior to that, it was reported that Tsalka and Marneuli kindergartens had closed a few hours earlier, most likely due to kindergartens' employees' presence at a party meeting.

This is a concern, as it may be the result of the coercion of subordinates or other dependent individuals to participate in the election campaign. Under Article 150 of the Criminal Code, it is unlawful to coerce an individual to perform an action abstinence from which is their right. Furthermore, prematurely closing kindergartens to allow personnel to attend a party meeting is an illegal use of administrative resources and demonstrates the systematic nature of the problem.

September 19: Physical attack on “National Movement” representatives in Zugdidi by several dozen individuals

On September 19, on Baramia Street in Zugdidi, representatives of the “National Movement”, including the member of parliament Ana Tsitlidze, were conducting an election campaign when they were attacked by several dozen people who, according to Ana Tsitlidze, were members of the “Georgian Dream” headquarters. In the video footage released by “TV Pirveli”, the attackers can be seen to physically and verbally abuse officials of the “National Movement”, including Ana Tsitlidze. Due to the attack, the “National Movement” election event could not continue and failed.

To ensure that elections are conducted in a peaceful and fair environment, all political parties must be given the opportunity to conduct pre-election campaigns in a safe environment. To prevent the incident from inciting violence against opposition party supporters and interfering with election campaigns, the attackers must be identified and a timely, thorough, and impartial investigation conducted.

September 16: Allegedly illegal arrest of Zurab Abaev, the representative of the “National Movement”, and police violence against him

On September 16, police arrested Zurav Abaev, a representative of the “National Movement”, outside the party's main office. According to Abaev, the police assaulted him during his detention, and the beating continued in the car and at the police station as well. Abaev became incapacitated in the department, necessitating the call for medical assistance and transportation to the clinic, where it was discovered that he had sustained various injuries. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, law enforcement officers stopped Abaev for verification, during which he resisted the officers, and he was arrested under Articles 166 and 173 of the Administrative Offences Code of Georgia, which refer to disorderly conduct and non-compliance with a lawful order or demand of a law-enforcement officer.

The circumstances indicate that Zurab Abaev was most likely illegally detained and mistreated. To ensure elections are conducted fairly, such cases must be investigated promptly, thoroughly, and impartially. The Special Investigation Service must establish all of the facts surrounding the case, including the existence of a political purpose for the violence and the potential wrongdoing of law enforcement officers

September 8: The mobilization of employees of budgetary organizations for the “Georgian Dream” party event in Akhaltsikhe.

On September 8, a party event of “Georgian Dream” was held in Akhaltsikhe. A significant number of individuals employed in the budgetary organizations, including those employed in schools and kindergartens, attended the meeting. Akhaltsikhe State University's lecturers instructed students of the same institution to participate in the same event, which also included a lecturer holding an administrative position. The students talked about the lack of comprehensive information regarding the event being a party event. One of the students stated that the lecturer even requested that they compile a list of the students who were going to the event.

September 7-8: The mobilization of employees of budgetary organizations for the “Georgian Dream” party event in Khulo.

On September 7-8, the head of the Khulo Educational Resource Center, employees, principals of 11 public schools, and teachers were in attendance at party meetings held by members of the “Georgian Dream” electoral list in Khulo.

This is a concern, as it may be the result of the coercion of subordinates or other dependent individuals to participate in the election campaign. This hypothesis is corroborated by the evidence, which indicates that the SSS and the governing party have exercised significant control over school principals in recent years as a demonstration of their loyalty to the ruling party. Under Article 150 of the Criminal Code, it is unlawful to coerce an individual to perform an action abstinence from which is their right.

September 4: The arrest of the head of the Gldani election headquarters of the “National Movement” should be the subject of an investigation by the special investigation service regarding the potential use of excessive force.

On September 4, Irakli Edzgveradze, a member of the Tbilisi city Municipal Assembly and the head of the Gldani election headquarters of the “National Movement,” was administratively detained. The Ministry of Internal Affairs justified Edzgveradze's detention by claiming that the MP was obstructing the police during an ongoing investigation into drug crime close to his residence. The deputy of the Tbilisi City Council allegedly suffered abuse from the police while he was being detained, according to Edzgveradze's lawyer, Lasha Tkesheladze. Edzgveradze is accused of violating Articles 166 and 173 of the Administrative Offences Code of Georgia, which constitute disorderly conduct and non-compliance with a lawful order or demand of a law-enforcement officer. The detention of Edzgveradze occurred alongside the arrest of Irakli Nadiradze, another member of the “National Movement,” and Tbilisi City Municipal Assembly. Nadiradze was subsequently released on the basis of a signed statement. The court declared Edzgveradze and Nadiradze as offenders on September 12 and 13 and imposed fines of 2,700 and 2,500 GEL on them, respectively.

During the pre-election period, it is imperative that criminal prosecution or administrative offense proceedings of politically active individuals be conducted only in cases where there is an urgent necessity. Alternatively, it could be interpreted as political persecution.

August 30: The dismissal of the director of the public school of Nokalakevi village of Senaki, allegedly based on political grounds

On August 30, Shorena Shamatava was dismissed from her role as director of the public school in the Senaki town of Nokalakevi, purportedly for political reasons. Since 2014, she had taken on the role of acting director. She claims that she openly supports the party of Giorgi Gakharia. She was informed that she would not be selected to the job of director by the chairman of the Education Resource Center after publicly expressing her political views. Shamatava claims that because she disagrees with the ruling party's policies, she has been subjected to psychological pressure for the past three years from the “Georgian Dream” and local self-government officials.

The decision-making procedure for appointing and dismissing the acting director is neither transparent nor predictable; there is good evidence that decisions have been taken in this process in previous years with the influence of the ruling party and SSS. Therefore, in the described scenario, there may be signs of dismissal based on political reasons.

August 26: The decree of the government encourages the non-transparent expenditure of funds by municipalities

On August 26, the government passed a decree that, within the framework of the “Promoting the Development of Citizens’ Involvement” initiative, allows municipalities to receive construction works worth up to 34 million through simplified procurement. On July 23, the government adopted the initiative Promoting the Development of Citizens’ Involvement,” and it involves allocating 20 million GEL to municipalities. The allocated money should be used for projects implemented within the municipalities’ own authority, the final decision on the selection of which is made by the mayor of the municipality.

The aim of the allocated funds is vague and creates a risk of using them for pre-election purposes. According to the new decree, municipalities will be able to spend the allocated funds without tenders, with less transparent procedures.

August 23: “Georgian Dream's” candidate's participation in the activity financed from the budget in Zugdidi

On August 23, State Representative Giorgi Guguchia and Zugdidi city Mayor Mamuka Tsotseria met with residents of the village of Jikhashkari in Zugdidi municipality to discuss the status of gasification operations. Davit Kodua, a candidate for parliament nominated by “Georgian Dream” in Zugdidi, attended the meeting along with them.

Davit Kodua does not currently hold a public position; he is a candidate for a member of parliament nominated by the ruling party, so his participation in the budget-funded activity represents a use of budgetary funds for the ruling party's candidate’s campaign, as well as creating the perception that the event is organized by the party.

August 23: The prime minister has announced that the government will ban opposition political parties and terminate parliamentary mandates of their members.

On August 23, Prime Minister Kobakhidze stated that after the opposition parties would have been banned, their mandates would be revoked as well. According to him, if the ruling party obtains the constitutional majority in Parliament, they will ban the following opposition parties: UNM and its coalition members (Strategy Agmashenebeli and European Georgia), Coalition for Changes - Akhali, Girchi and Droa Lelo and its coalition, and Gakharia’s party.

The prime minister has thus spelled out his party’s electoral promise: if they win the elections, there will be no opposition parties in Georgia, and the ruling party will cancel the election results for those hundreds of thousands of Georgians who are going to vote for those opposition parties.

August 21: Signs of forcible mobilization of budgetary organizations’ staffs at a Georgian Dream party’s event in Mtskheta

On August 21, Georgian Dream, within the framework of its election campaign, held a party event in Mtskheta. In a video footage broadcast by TV Pirveli, it is evident that at the event some budgetary organizations’ employees, such as kindergarten attendants and school teachers, were present. The video has also located presumably a social security employment program beneficiary.

These facts are problematic because they may indicate coercive engagement of inferior public employees or otherwise dependent persons in the ruling party’s election campaign. Under Article 150 of the Criminal Code, forcing someone to perform or not to perform an action is a criminal offense.

August 18: Ruling party’s candidate participated in a state-budget-financed event

On August 18, with the support of the Tetritskharo municipal government and a non-commercial organization, Culture and Sports Center, a public event, Manglisoba 2024 was held. An incumbent mayor of Bolnisi, who at the same time has been nominated a Georgian Dream candidate, and a delegate from Tetritskharo-Bolnisi-Dmanisi-Tsalka, Mr. David Sherazadishvili, took part in the event.

This fact is problematic because, as per international good practice, there must be a clear line between the State and the ruling party. When a ruling party’s candidate takes part in a budget-funded event, it makes an impression that the event is organized by the ruling party.

August 16: CEC decision lowers transparency of election procedures and is at odds with law

On August 16, the CEC passed a decision by which a draw for the division of roles between precinct commission members will take place at least 7 days prior to Election Day rather than on Election Day.

The CEC decision will make the process less transparent as it will make it impossible for observers to monitor the draws in more than 3000 polling stations at least 7 days ahead of Election Day. In addition, the decision is unlawful, as the Election Code does not leave it for the CEC to decide when such draws must take place. Instead, the law clearly provides that the draws must take place on Election Day. Furthermore, the decision fails to explain why such modifications were needed and necessary.

August 15: Communications Commission’s decision to fine Mtavari Arkhi unjustifiably infringes upon TV channel’s freedom of expression

On August 15, the GNCC assessed Mtavari Arkhi’s two video footages as political advertisements and imposed a GEL 2,500 fine on the TV channel. The first footage describes how Radio Marneuli supports Georgia’s EU integration process. The second footage demonstrates, with the support of music, anti-Russian-law protests. According to the GNCC, “the footage drives the public perception against those political associations and their representatives who have voted for the adoption of the Law on Transparency of Foreign Influence. Therefore, the GNCC considers that the video footages pursue an objective to prevent election of those political forces in the upcoming elections who are supportive of the above law.”

The GNCC decision unjustifiably infringes upon the TV channel’s freedom of expression. The GNCC has invoked a general provision of law and arbitrarily expanded the area of its application to extend the ban on political advertising to non-election periods, despite the fact that the law does not prohibit that. The decision sets a dangerous precedent for democracy as it lays down a standard banning any criticism of Parliament’s decisions. It is noteworthy that the videos do not contain any reference to any political party. Instead, they intend to criticize certain public policies, a conduct that is unthinkable to be restricted in a pluralistic society.

August 12: Zugdidi Mayor’s Office has launched mass rehabilitation of streets in the pre-election period

On August 12, the Zugdidi Mayor’s Office announced a call for public tenders for the rehabilitation of 67 streets. The work should be completed in 2-3 months. The Zugdidi Mayor’s Office has never announced such a massive scale of work for the rehabilitation of streets before. Interestingly, the works were scheduled so that they were likely to be completed on or close to Election Day.

It is crucial for a healthy and competitive election environment that in the proximity of Election Day no such public programs be launched, as this way the incumbent party/candidate gains, at the taxpayers’ expense, serious advantages vis-à-vis their opponents. Such decisions, therefore, may be assessed as election-motivated budgetary spending.

August 11: The leader of the opposition was physically assaulted

On August 11, in Samtredia, at the opening ceremony of the local office of the political coalition "Coalition for Change," one of the coalition's leaders, Nika Melia, was attacked by a person who physically and verbally insulted him.

To ensure that elections are conducted in a peaceful and fair environment, all political parties must be given the opportunity to conduct pre-election campaigns in a safe environment. The law enforcement agencies are required to investigate the circumstances of the case and identify the responsible person in a timely and objective manner.

August 10-11: TV Imedi promotes the Georgian Dream candidate using budget funds

On August 10-11, Archil Beridze's solo concerts were held in Batumi, which were state-budget-financed. On August 16, the "Georgian Dream" announced Beridze's election candidacy. On the same day, TV Imedi aired a two-hour recording of Archil Beridze's solo concert from August 10.

This fact is problematic because 5 days before Archil Beridze was publicly nominated as a candidate of the ruling party, a solo concert was funded by the state budget, and after he was nominated, a budget-funded concert was televised on TV Imedi. "TV Imedi" may have made an illegal donation in favor of the ruling party's candidate.

August 3: Individuals purportedly linked with the “Georgian Dream” hindered the Gakharia party from conducting its pre-election campaign in Batumi.

On August 3, an effort to hinder the “Gakharia for Georgia” party's election campaign was documented in Batumi. According to the party's deputy chairperson, Natia Mezvrishvili, it was people employed in budgetary organizations, who at the same time are “Georgian Dream” activists, who attempted to disrupt the meeting.

For a healthy pre-election environment, all parties must be able to freely conduct election campaigns. The Ministry of Internal Affairs should provide a safe environment and prevent attempts to disrupt election events.

July 31 - August 5: Signs of use of administrative resources in regions

On August 1-5, Borjomi Municipality held a youth camp intended for students of the graduating class.
Since August 1, the Ministry of Health & Social Affairs of Adjara started implementing new social programs:
- Material assistance for socially vulnerable families, which provides monthly material assistance of 200 GEL to socially vulnerable families registered in Adjara.
- Material support for families with newborn twins, according to which material support for families with newborn twins is increasing. From now on, the ministry will issue 1500 GEL instead of 1000 GEL per twin.
- Funding of dental services for disabled persons under 30 years old. Funding includes therapeutic and surgical dental services.
On August 1, the government adopted a resolution approving the beekeeping support program. Within the framework of the program, 50% of the cost of the hives will be financed for beekeepers, not more than 70 GEL per hive, but not more than 5,000 GEL per beneficiary. A total of 2 million GEL is planned to be allocated for the program.
As of July 31, 63,558 individuals' total tax arrears of 361 million GEL had been waived off. The arrears’ write-off process began on June 25, with the adoption of government-initiated amendments to the tax code on May 29. According to the changes, any recognized tax arrears incurred and unpaid before January 1, 2021, including the penalties charged on them, will be totally written off. According to Irakli Kobakhidze, 145 thousand individuals will have their tax arrears of 590 million GEL totally waived off.

It is critical for a healthy and harmonious electoral climate that new state programs of this nature (described above) not be initiated shortly before the elections, because the state candidate/party gets a serious advantage at the expense of taxpayers. Consequently, these decisions can be categorized as election-motivated budgetary spending.

July 18, July 23: Election-motivated decrees of the government

On July 23, the government issued a decree according to which 20 million GEL was allocated to municipalities to “promote the development of citizens' involvement”. The allocated money should be used for projects implemented within the municipalities' own authority, the final decision on the selection of which is made by the mayor of the municipality.
On July 18, the government issued a decree, according to which 250,000 GEL was allocated to the government administration from the government's reserve fund, “to finance the necessary expenses of the events to be held for the appreciation of successful Georgians and promotion of their professions”.

The vague aim of the allocated funds creates a risk that the funds will be used for pre-election purposes.

Tags: elections

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