OSCE receipt of Georgian Dream's invitation for supervision during local elections

In a surprising turn of events, the Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has announced the invitation of the OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) to observe the upcoming municipal elections in Georgia, scheduled for 4 October. This decision comes after repeated denials by Kobakhidze in June, stating that it was "not standard practice" for local elections.

The invitation comes at a time when the political landscape in Georgia is fraught with tension. The OSCE/ODIHR's observation mission during the parliamentary elections noted concerns regarding the impact of legislation on fundamental freedoms and civil society, steps to reduce the independence of institutions involved in the electoral process, and pressure on voters. Additionally, a tense atmosphere and widespread intimidation of voters and citizen observers were reported during the parliamentary elections.

The OSCE generally receives invitations to observe elections four to six months ahead of the voting, but the invitation to observe the municipal elections in Georgia was extended at the last moment. The OSCE spokesperson stated that they need time to carry out the full range of activities required for an election observation in line with their well-established methodology.

Two opposition groups, Lelo - Strong Georgia and For Georgia, will take part in the elections. Giorgi Gakharia, the leader of For Georgia, is effectively in-exile, having been based in Germany for at least a few months following the creation of the parliamentary commission. Gakharia is the only opposition leader to heed the commission's summons, having attended at least two of its sessions - albeit remotely in at least one instance.

Mikheil Kavelashvili, the Georgian President, pardoned the co-leaders of Lelo, Mamuka Khazaradze and Badri Japaridze, almost three months after they were jailed for failing to appear before a parliamentary commission. Khazaradze described the pardon as an attempt to discredit his party in the eyes of the opposition.

In a positive development, Lelo's Secretary General, Irakli Kupradze, was named as the joint candidate for Tbilisi mayor by For Georgia and Lelo - Strong Georgia to run against incumbent Kakha Kaladze. This move is expected to create a more competitive environment for the elections, as two parties, Lelo and For Georgia, are participating and have nominated mayoral candidates in more than half of precincts.

Kobakhidze now expects the elections to take place in a 'competitive environment', acknowledging the participation of two parties in the elections. However, the OSCE/ODIHR's report on the October 2020 parliamentary elections has faced criticism from the Georgian opposition, a fact that Kobakhidze claims has influenced the decision to invite the OSCE/ODIHR to observe the municipal elections.

The municipal elections in Georgia are set to be a significant test of the country's democratic processes, with the opposition boycotting the elections amidst ongoing political tensions. The role of the OSCE/ODIHR in observing these elections will be crucial in ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process.

OSCE receipt of Georgian Dream's invitation for supervision during local elections