Georgian PM: opposition doomed to total defeat in upcoming local elections

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Thursday said that the opposition was destined for a total defeat in the upcoming local elections, emphasising that “they stand no chance” against the ruling party.

In his interview with the Adjara Public Broadcaster, Kobakhidze noted that with the Georgian Dream holding a 55 percent approval rating, no political alliance or reconfiguration within the opposition could alter the outcome.

“It doesn’t matter how they regroup. Rearranging the components won’t change the sum. The total remains very low. Whether four unite, two join forces, one stands alone, or none remain - it makes no difference. They are doomed to a total defeat. They have absolutely no chance. When the ruling party enjoys such a high rating - over 55 percent - no configuration will help them”, he said.

The PM further highlighted that the ruling party’s objective was straightforward - to secure victory in both mayoral and city council elections across all 64 municipalities, emphasising that the Georgian Dream would win the local elections in every municipality, regardless of opposition alignment.

“We expect a higher percentage than we achieved in the last elections. Back then, we secured 54.5 percent nationwide, and under current conditions, I believe we can exceed that by at least 2 percent. Once the campaign begins, the result could improve even further. While configuration may play a role, it won’t cause any significant shift in the final outcome”, Kobakhidze concluded.