PM: Georgia demonstrates openness by inviting OSCE/ODIHR, expects no reciprocity from opposition

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Saturday emphasised his Government’s commitment to transparency by inviting the OSCE/ODIHR mission to observe the upcoming local self-government elections scheduled for October 4, while expressing scepticism about the radical opposition’s willingness to reciprocate such openness.

In his remarks, Kobakhidze underscored that the invitation to the OSCE/ODIHR reflects Georgia’s responsibility and openness, with his Government being completely ready to provide all necessary conditions for comprehensive election monitoring.

“As for the radical opposition, I do not expect a shift in their attitude. Since the issue of inviting the OSCE/ODIHR has arisen, we have demonstrated complete openness. This openness is reflected in our invitation to the OSCE/ODIHR mission and our full readiness to create all conditions for its activities. This is an expression of our responsibility. We do not expect the radical opposition to respond to our approach with the same attitude. They did not respect the OSCE/ODIHR’s conclusions regarding the parliamentary elections in the past either. Accordingly, a change in their attitude is absolutely not expected, nor do we expect it from their [foreign] patrons”, the PM said.

The Prime Minister further denounced the domestic radical opposition, particularly the United National Movement and its allies, for only accepting the election outcome when a “pseudo-liberal” political force prevails.

“The radical opposition and their patrons only approve the election outcome when a pseudo-liberal political force wins. This is not a phenomenon unique to Georgia; it happens in any other country as well. They insist that a force like the bloody collective United National Movement in Georgia’s case must win, otherwise they cannot accept the election outcome. Therefore, I do not expect a change in attitude from the opposition or their patrons. This is not our main concern. Our main concern is the openness we express through this act”, he concluded.