Georgian Parliament official predicts “hot summer” of foreign interference ahead of local elections

Levan Makhashvili, the Chair of the Committee on European Integration of the Georgian Parliament, on Tuesday predicted a tumultuous political season, characterised by foreign influence and dramatic tactics, as the country approaches its local elections.

In his remarks, Makhashvili noted that Georgia should anticipate “a hot summer - with many foreign TV series, many threats, much blackmail, and speaking on behalf of the Georgian people”.

The official highlighted his belief that the opposition was relying heavily on foreign actors rather than engaging with Georgian citizens.

“Instead of talking to the Georgian people, the opposition is fully relying on foreigners”, Makhashvili asserted, adding that “what they have left today is foreign dramaturgy”.

He further questioned the timing and motives behind recent discussions surrounding visa-free travel.

“Why did they bring up the visa-free issue? What is it related to? Why is it happening? It seems there are many people abroad who are ready to sacrifice Georgia's future in the name of Ukraine. Let's not forget that it's a pre-election period”, Makhashvili continued.

Makhashvili reiterated his view that the opposition's reliance on external forces stems from their inability to garner domestic support.

“Instead of talking to the Georgian people, the opposition is completely relying on foreigners, because citizens did not follow the revolutionary calls, the opposition also received a clear rejection in the elections, and what is left today is foreign dramaturgy”, he concluded.