Giorgi Tkemaladze, Chairman of the Tbilisi City Council, addressed opposition representative Zviad Kuprava from the United National Movement, who called for the postponement of the upcoming local elections, claiming that the Council of Europe had issued a similar recommendation.

Tkemaladze firmly dismissed this assertion, stating that the Council of Europe has not made such a recommendation and reaffirmed that the elections will proceed as scheduled in October.

“It seems you are attempting to extend your mandate, which is why you are demanding a postponement. The Council of Europe’s recommendations do not advocate for delaying the local elections. Even if such a recommendation existed, it would be unacceptable—Georgia has a constitution, a legitimate parliament, a government, and a president.

As stipulated by law, the local elections will take place on October 4 and adhere to high democratic standards. I am confident that many international observers, including representatives from the Council of Europe’s Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, will be present to evaluate the process.

So, unfortunately for you, October 4 marks the conclusion of your term as a city council member,” Tkemaladze stated in response to Kuprava.