“The United National Movement reflects the desires of the protest electorate and the majority of rational citizens. Therefore, we do not participate in the so-called special operation announced on October 4 by Ivanishvili,” stated Levan Sanikidze, a member of the United National Movement.

According to Sanikidze, some political parties are still debating whether to take part in elections organized by Irakli Kobakhidze and Giorgi Kalandarishvili, despite the current political climate.

“When political prisoners remain behind bars and no new parliamentary elections are scheduled, discussing participation becomes meaningless. Those who put themselves in an offside position will face consequences. I believe Lelo will be forced to change its stance. If not, it risks alienating not only the broader opposition electorate but even its own supporters,” said Sanikidze.

When asked what the point of a UNM boycott would be if Lelo, Girchi, and Gakharia for Georgia chose to participate, Sanikidze responded: “Our position is that at least Lelo cannot legitimately participate under the current conditions—with this CEC, no date for new parliamentary elections, and political prisoners still detained. Public statements are one thing, but public sentiment is another. In 2021, opposition votes were manipulated across the country—not just in Tbilisi. The elections were rigged everywhere. Now the situation is even worse: the CEC is worse, opposition leaders are imprisoned, and a sanctioned administration is running the elections. If anyone believes they can enter this system, fool voters, claim to defend their votes, and somehow bring change, they are mistaken. We believe that a boycott offers a greater chance of removing Ivanishvili than playing the role of a controlled opposition,” Sanikidze concluded.