Bidzina Ivanishvili marks 13 years since Georgian Dream’s victory, calls for unity ahead of local elections

Bidzina Ivanishvili, the founder and Honorary Chair of the ruling Georgian Dream party, on Wednesday released a statement marking the 13th anniversary of the 2012 electoral victory, stressing that the upcoming October 4 local self-government elections represent another crucial test for Georgia’s unity and democratic achievements.

In a letter, Ivanishvili noted that both internal and external adversaries see the elections as an opportunity to sow unrest and attempt a state overthrow in pursuit of their own political goals.

“More and more people are recognizing the true intentions of the opposition, and their public support is declining daily. At the same time, Georgia’s state institutions are stronger than ever. This leaves the radicals with only one option - further escalation and direct attacks on their own state and people”, Ivanishvili said.

He emphasised that October 4 was an opportunity for citizens to once again demonstrate their will through peaceful participation in elections, safeguarding stability and the progress achieved since 2012.

“On October 4, we have the chance to show everyone that our struggle today is about going to the polling stations, making a free choice, and protecting peace and stability. We can solidify the peaceful victory achieved in 2012, leave radicalism and confrontation in the past, and move forward toward greater development, prosperity, sovereignty, and ultimately, the peaceful unification of our country”, he concluded.