In a recent press conference held at the Orbeliani Presidential Palace, President Salome Zurabishvili firmly stated that the ruling Georgian Dream party will not be able to falsify the upcoming October 2024 elections. Addressing concerns about election integrity and the role of international observers, Zurabishvili emphasized the importance of full mobilization and active participation from both the local population and the Georgian diaspora.
Ensuring Election Integrity
President Zurabishvili’s declaration comes at a crucial time as Georgia prepares for its parliamentary elections. She highlighted the significance of international observation missions, which are expected to play a vital role in ensuring the transparency and fairness of the electoral process. According to Zurabishvili, the presence of these observers will help mitigate any attempts at election fraud, despite the increasingly sophisticated methods of forgery seen globally.
The President also stressed the importance of public vigilance and participation. She called on the Georgian people to remain actively involved in the electoral process, stating that their engagement is crucial to preventing any potential manipulation. Zurabishvili’s remarks underscore the need for a collective effort to safeguard democracy in Georgia, urging citizens to exercise their right to vote and to be vigilant against any irregularities.
In addition to local efforts, Zurabishvili highlighted the critical role of the Georgian diaspora. She pointed out that the diaspora’s involvement is essential for a fair election, as they represent a significant portion of the electorate. The President urged the government to facilitate the diaspora’s participation by ensuring that polling stations are accessible abroad and by encouraging their active engagement in the electoral process.
Mobilizing the Georgian Diaspora
The Georgian diaspora, which numbers over a million people, plays a pivotal role in the country’s political landscape. Zurabishvili emphasized that the diaspora’s participation in the upcoming elections is vital for ensuring a fair and representative outcome. She criticized the government’s previous efforts to hinder diaspora voting by not opening sufficient polling stations abroad, calling for greater accessibility and support for these voters.
Zurabishvili’s call to action aims to mobilize the diaspora, encouraging them to return to Georgia to vote if necessary. She believes that the more the government attempts to suppress the diaspora’s involvement, the more determined they will become to participate. This mobilization is seen as a key factor in countering any potential election fraud and ensuring that the voices of all Georgians are heard.
The President also addressed the challenges faced by young people in Georgia, many of whom have left the country due to difficult living and working conditions. She expressed her hope that the youth will actively participate in the elections, viewing it as their “last chance” to influence the country’s future. Zurabishvili’s remarks reflect a broader concern about the government’s failure to address the needs of young people and the active part of society, which she believes is driving them to emigrate.
The Role of International Observers
International observers are expected to play a crucial role in the upcoming elections, providing an additional layer of scrutiny to ensure transparency and fairness. Zurabishvili acknowledged that while the effectiveness of international observation has diminished over time due to more refined methods of forgery, their presence remains essential. She called for full mobilization and maximum involvement from both local and international communities to safeguard the electoral process.
The President’s remarks highlight the importance of international cooperation in maintaining democratic standards. By inviting international observers, Georgia aims to demonstrate its commitment to fair and transparent elections. Zurabishvili’s call for vigilance and active participation from the public and the diaspora further reinforces this commitment, emphasizing the collective responsibility to uphold democratic values.
Zurabishvili’s statements also reflect a broader concern about the integrity of elections worldwide. She noted that bribery and other forms of manipulation have become more sophisticated, making it increasingly challenging to ensure fair elections. However, she remains optimistic that with full mobilization and active involvement, the Georgian people can overcome these challenges and ensure a fair electoral process.
