PM Gakharia: no grounds to postpone elections amid increased cases of coronavirus

Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia has stated that as of today there are no grounds to postpone the October 31 parliamentary elections despite a sharp increase in the number of coronavirus cases. 

• Georgia reports 919 new cases of coronavirus, a record-high since February

Although the number of new infections is surging, we are managing the process,” Gakharia said. 

He stated that the government has no illusions that there will be a decrease in the number of coronavirus cases. 

We have announced today that restaurants and other entertaining facilities will work until 22:00 p.m in Tbilisi and the Imereti region [starting tomorrow]. We have no expectations that the move will allow for a decrease in new infections. The step will help us to control the speed of the virus’ spread,” Gakharia said earlier today. 

He stated that in the coming days Georgia is expected to report more than 1,000 daily cases of coronavirus. 

However, our health system will resist the blow,” Gakharia said. 

He urged employers to allow their employees to work remotely when possible. 

• Georgian health official: coronavirus will claim more lives, wear face masks even in open areas

Gakharia appealed to people to use face masks even in open areas.