“The Political Council of Strong Georgia officially voted today to withdraw the parliamentary lists and renounce mandates,” Mamuka Khazaradze, leader of the Strong Georgia Coalition, posted on social media.

He stated that the decision received the backing of the majority of the Political Council.

“It is essential that no political entity with a representative mandate legitimizes the Parliament of the Georgian Dream by refusing to use their granted mandates. All opposition parties have made statements to this effect.

According to Article 120, Paragraph 2 of the Election Code, the decision to withdraw candidates from the parliamentary list may be made after the newly elected Parliament convenes. Furthermore, Article 39, Paragraph 5, Subparagraph ‘a’ of the Constitution of Georgia stipulates that ‘the powers of a member of Parliament shall terminate prematurely if they submit a personal request to the Parliament for the termination of those powers.

Legally, this appeal can be made following the first session of Parliament, when the powers of the newly elected members are recognized. Therefore, we propose that all parties receiving mandates act together, simultaneously submitting requests to withdraw their lists and renounce their mandates. This will prevent any misinterpretations and speculation on the matter. We are also willing to coordinate this political act with the President’s involvement to ensure greater visibility,” Khazaradze added on social media.