TBILISI, Georgia — On Monday, a significant gathering of opposition supporters took place in the capital of Georgia, as they continued protests against the ruling party’s claimed victory in the parliamentary elections held on October 26. Allegations have risen suggesting that Russia played a role in manipulating the vote results.
The demonstrators were seen waving flags of both Georgia and the European Union, congregating outside the parliament building. They are calling for a fresh parliamentary election to be conducted under international oversight, along with a thorough investigation into the suspected electoral fraud.
Giorgi Vashadze, the leader of the Unity National Movement Coalition, expressed a strong commitment to the fight against the election results. “The elections were heavily manipulated, and therefore we refuse to acknowledge the outcomes,” he stated. “Our objective is new elections, aiming to establish a new government that propels Georgia towards integration with Europe.”
Opposition leaders have declared their intent to boycott parliamentary sessions while organizing ongoing protests until their demands are addressed. According to the Central Election Commission, the ruling Georgian Dream party claimed about 54% of the votes; however, party officials have dismissed accusations of any electoral wrongdoing.
European election monitors reported that the elections unfolded in a “divisive” environment, marred by incidents of bribery, double voting, and even physical violence. The opposition has accused the Georgian Dream party—founded by Bidzina Ivanishvili, a wealthy figure with ties to Russia—of veering toward authoritarianism and growing closer to Moscow. Recently, the party has introduced legislation reminiscent of Kremlin tactics, which target free speech and LGBTQ+ rights.
President Salome Zourabichvili, who has contested the official election results, remarked that Georgia has become a target of pressure from Moscow that undermines its aspirations to join the EU. Although her position is largely ceremonial, Zourabichvili has called upon the United States and the EU to lend support to the demonstrators.
Authorities in Washington and Brussels have advocated for a comprehensive investigation into the electoral proceedings, while the Kremlin has denied any claims of interference. Many citizens of Georgia viewed the parliamentary election as a crucial referendum regarding the country’s ambition to join the EU, particularly in light of the EU’s indefinite suspension of Georgia’s membership application process following the adoption of a controversial “foreign influence” law that closely resembles those used in Russia.
In a show of solidarity, lawmakers from various EU nations participated in Monday’s rally. Lithuanian parliament member Zygimantas Pavilionis addressed the crowd, stating, “Someone is attempting to steal your freedom, your democracy, your nation, and your ambition for EU and NATO membership. Do not surrender. Continue to fight for your freedom, for your democracy, for your country, and for your EU and NATO membership.”