Ruling party official alleges opposition participation in local elections tied to external orders, funding

Mamuka Mdinaradze, the Executive Secretary of the ruling Georgian Dream party, on Thursday said the participation of opposition parties in the upcoming local elections scheduled for October would depend on receiving specific orders and corresponding funds.

In his interview with Imedi TV, Mdinaradze noted that the opposition did get to decide whether they participate in the local elections.

“The opposition doesn't get to decide whether they participate in the local elections. They'll do whatever they’re told. The only right they have is to complain if they’re not paid”, the ruling party official said.

When asked which opposition parties, given the current situation, would participate in the local elections, Mdinaradze responded, “Those who receive certain orders and corresponding funds”.

This statement comes amid calls from the United National Movement for its affiliated parties and fellow opposition members to boycott the local elections. However, there are divisions within the opposition ranks. While some parties maintain their stance of non-participation in the October 4 elections, others, such as Lelo, have softened their position.