Georgian Public Defender urges politicians to avoid hate speech ahead of local elections

Georgian Public Defender Levan Ioseliani on Monday called on domestic politicians and political parties to refrain from using hate speech during the election campaign ahead of the upcoming local elections.

In his remarks, Ioseliani emphasised that it was crucial for the pre-election environment to be free from violence and hostile rhetoric.

“It is very important that the pre-election period takes place without violence and hate speech. I urge all political parties, all politicians, and everyone involved in the election campaign to refrain as much as possible from using hate speech”, the Public Defender said.

He further noted that there had already been cases of such incidents, adding that his office would make public statements regarding them in the run-up to the elections.

“Unfortunately, we are already seeing instances where such incidents are taking place. I hope the elections will be conducted in a peaceful atmosphere”, Ioseliani concluded.