Levan Tsutskiridze, chair of the Freedom Square party, stated on Palitranews’ Day Newsroom program that his party would support a total opposition boycott of the local government elections and take the lead in organizing it. However, if such a boycott fails, the party will hold internal discussions.

“Anyone who has worked in the opposition, especially on election day, knows how many mechanisms are used against us. The entire state apparatus is working to hinder opposition parties—the party-controlled Security Service, MIA, an unfair court system, administrative resources, and intimidation tactics. For a citizen in a small village or town, joining an opposition party is the most dangerous step, often leading to job loss and threats against them or their relatives. Despite these challenges, the opposition still manages to achieve victories, but it is not enough,” Tsutskiridze said.

He also noted that his party has not ruled out participating in the elections and that internal discussions are ongoing.

“Criticism is only valid if decisions are made without discussion. It is natural for a political party to deliberate on major political issues, and this is no exception. We have had and will continue to have internal discussions. Such decisions should not be made solely by party leaders. If the situation remains unchanged or worsens—if political prisoners are still detained, the Election Commission remains under one-party control, and the pre-election environment deteriorates—then a total opposition boycott is the best strategy.

Freedom Square will fully support and lead such a move. However, if a boycott fails, we must carefully weigh our options—not just from the party’s perspective, but in consideration of what is best for democracy, freedom, and the state of Georgia. First comes the homeland, then the party,” Tsutskiridze emphasized.