EU urges “swift investigation” into alleged electoral irregularities in Georgia’s parliamentary elections

The European Union High Representative Josep Borrell and the European Commission on Sunday called on the Central Election Commission of Georgia and “relevant authorities” to investigate and address alleged electoral irregularities and allegations of misconduct in Saturday’s general elections. 

The official statement stressed “swift, transparent and independent” investigation of alleged violations was “necessary for rebuilding trust in the electoral process”. 

The statement followed the preliminary findings of the international election observation mission led by the Organisation for Security and Co-Operation in Europe Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, which on Sunday noted that while election day was “generally well-organised”, it was marred by a “tense atmosphere and instances of intimidation”. 

Reports also indicated alleged cases of compromised secrecy of vote and pressure on voters, particularly public sector employees.

The statement noted the bloc awaited the final OSCE/ODIHR report on the elections and a “swift implementation” of its recommendations.