“Inviting the OSCE/ODIHR mission just 3-4 weeks before the elections is a clear propaganda ploy. In reality, only a short-term mission can be deployed at this late stage, making meaningful observation of the pre-election period impossible,” stated Giorgi Sioridze, a member of the Lelo – Strong Georgia coalition.

Sioridze responded to Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s recent statement that the Georgian government had sent an invitation to the OSCE/ODIHR for the October 4 elections.

“On June 18, Irakli Kobakhidze stated that they had no intention of inviting the OSCE/ODIHR mission. Now, announcing the invitation just 3-4 weeks before the elections appears to be a propaganda tactic, reminiscent of Belarus, where the mission is invited at such short notice that the OSCE/ODIHR is unable to address logistical challenges.

In reality, invitations are usually sent 4 to 6 months in advance, allowing time to select and prepare observers. As was the case in Belarus, if the OSCE/ODIHR is unable to dispatch a long-term mission, it is often blamed, thereby fostering anti-Western rhetoric. Theoretically, only a limited, short-term mission may be sent, which makes comprehensive observation of the pre-election period impossible.

For us, as a party participating in the elections, the presence of OSCE/ODIHR observers is vital. Since Ivanishvili has effectively prevented Georgian NGOs from monitoring the vote, we will have to rely solely on party forces on October 4. Nevertheless, even if the OSCE/ODIHR dispatches only a limited mission, we will continue to work closely with international partners to expose any irregularities and illegalities of the Ivanishvili regime,” said Giorgi Sioridze.