Georgian leaders cast their ballots, encourage citizens to vote

Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili has cast his ballot in today's municipal elections saying he voted for "a better Tbilisi”.

PM arrived at Saburtalo #24 polling station in central Tbilisi about 9:00am with his family.

Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili and his son at polling station. Photo by PM's press office.

I voted for Tbilisi where everyone enjoys to live; which has perfect urban transport; green areas that let our citizens breath fresh air; high-quality education system; where entrepreneurs enjoy doing business and people live happily”, Kvirikashvili said.

President Giorgi Margvelashvili has also cast his ballot.

At 9:00am Margvelashvili visited #6 polling station in Mtatsminda district, central Tbilisi, to vote.

President Giorgi Margvelashvili said he voted for different subjects at the three ballot papers. Photo by President's press office

After he cast his ballot the President encouraged the citizens to go to polling stations and vote for more engaged local government that listens to its citizens.

The local elections should define the fate of our daily problems and needs… The majoritarians and mayors should serve to the society; listen to people’s needs”, Margvelashvili said.

Today Georgians will vote 2,058 members of 64 city councils (sakrebulo) and 64 municipal mayors.

Twenty-two political parties, five election blocs and one initiative group have registered their party lists for tomorrow’s elections.

To win the mayoral elections, candidates must clear a 50 percent threshold. If this is not reached, a second round of voting will be held.