OSCE PA Special Representative expresses concern over recent developments in Georgia during and following local elections and subsequent unrest amid announced efforts to overturn gov’t

OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Special Representative on the South Caucasus Luís Graça on Saturday expressed concern regarding recent developments in Georgia during and following the 4 October local elections and the subsequent unrest amid announced efforts to overturn the government.

“I am deeply concerned about the growing tensions and violence that have followed the local elections in Georgia”, said Special Representative Luís Graça.

“The OSCE PA underscores that democratic governance must rest on law, accountability and peaceful political dialogue”, Graça continued.

“At this sensitive moment, I urge all stakeholders to refrain from any form of violence and I call on all political forces to commit to working through legitimate political processes”, he concluded.

On October 4, large-scale protests in Tbilisi escalated into a dramatic confrontation, as a group of radical demonstrators tried to storm the presidential palace. The unrest occurred on the same day Georgia held municipal elections.

Authorities detained at least five opposition figures, including Paata Burchuladze. They are now facing charges of plotting to overthrow the government - a potential offense that could carry lengthy prison sentences.

Government officials described the events as a failed coup attempt orchestrated with foreign backing. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze called the protests “an attempted overthrow of the constitutional order”.