Tbilisi [Georgia], October 27 – The Georgian Dream Party has announced its victory in Georgia’s recent parliamentary elections, reportedly capturing 53% of electronic votes, according to Euro News. With 90% of the ballots counted, the party leads in one of Georgia’s most politically charged elections.
A Divisive Election for Georgia’s Political Future
This election marks a turning point for Georgia, a South Caucasus nation with a population of 3.7 million, as debates over domestic and foreign policy have sharpened. The election outcome holds weight not only within Georgia but also for its diplomatic direction.
Final Results Awaited with Non-Electronic Ballots
The full election results, including non-electronic votes, will be released Sunday morning. The Georgian Dream Party’s current lead, however, has been met with strong pushback from opposition groups.
Opposition Claims ‘Voter Manipulation’ and Russian Influence
Four main opposition parties—United National Movement, Strong Georgia, Coalition for Change, and Gakharia for Georgia—allege voter manipulation and fraud. They accuse the Georgian Dream Party of turning away from the European Union and leaning toward Russian interests. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze dismissed these claims, stating, “We have no diplomatic relations with Russia,” and affirmed the party’s commitment to European integration.
Foreign Policy Takes Center Stage in Campaigns
Leading up to the elections, Prime Minister Kobakhidze emphasized that this vote represents “a referendum about the war and the peace issue,” indirectly referring to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. He assured voters that the Georgian Dream Party provides “the strongest guarantee for peace” while promising national development.
Georgian Dream’s Bold Constitutional Amendment Promise
The Georgian Dream Party had announced plans to amend the Constitution to potentially ban opposition parties, contingent on winning 75% of parliamentary seats. With 150 representatives from 18 political parties vying for seats, the party that reaches 76 seats will form a government. If no party secures a majority, the president will invite the leading party to form a coalition.
