EU Parliament rejects Georgia's ruling party, demands new elections
The resolution blasted the "rigged" Georgian elections on October 26, citing significant irregularities such as voter intimidation, vote manipulation, and interference with election observers and media.
The Georgian Dream party claimed victory in the vote, but pro-Western opposition parties refused to recognized the result. Many opposition lawmakers have declined to take their seats in parliament.
Since the end of October, there have been massive street protests against the ruling party, which intensified when the prime minister postponed EU accession negotiations until the end of 2028.
There have been violent riots, injuries and several hundred arrests. The police have been accused of violence and torture.
The resolution, which passed with 400 votes in favour, 63 against and with 81 abstentions, calls for new elections within the next few months under international supervision and an independent election administration.
It also urges the European Union and its member states to impose personal sanctions on Georgian officials deemed responsible for democratic backsliding, including Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze, Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili, and former prime minister Bidzina Ivanishvili.
"Deeply regretting the ruling Georgian Dream party's abandonment of its path toward European integration and NATO membership, Parliament reiterates its unwavering support for the Georgian people's legitimate European aspirations," the resolution said.
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