Georgia's Interior Ministry issues measures to “ensure free, fair” elections

The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia on Friday announced new measures to ensure the October 26 parliamentary elections are conducted in a “free, fair, and peaceful environment”.

The Ministry said the new order formed specialised territorial groups within police departments across the country, which would be responsible for “detecting and preventing law violations” in their designated operational areas. 

To this end, police officers will be directed to take “necessary preventive measures” in accordance with Georgia's legal framework, specifically the law on police.

A key aspect of the order requires police officers to maintain “strict political neutrality” while carrying out their duties, with the Ministry highlighting “no actions by law enforcement should be perceived as supporting or opposing any political party”.