The Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) continues to monitor the electoral process. With the start of the pre-election period, incidents of violence, verbal confrontations, and obstruction of campaigning have increased.

“GYLA identified violent acts with signs of criminal offenses in several regions. The facts processed by the organization include incidents of physical violence, damage to other people’s property, campaign interference and other alleged crimes. In order to ensure a fair and free pre-election environment, it is crucial that political parties are able to meet with voters and carry out their activities in a peaceful and non-violent atmosphere, with a sense of physical security.

Within the framework of its monitoring, GYLA assessed 9 incidents. Among the identified cases, four involve alleged politically motivated physical violence, two concern suspected damage to property, and three relate to alleged interference in campaigning or activism. Of these cases, six targeted representatives of various opposition parties, two were directed against members of Georgian Dream, and one involved the Choose Europe platform.

It is crucial to conduct timely and effective investigations into acts of violence that appear to be politically motivated. Prolonged investigations risk deteriorating the electoral environment, particularly in cases where allegations of physical violence involve law enforcement officials.

Conducting elections in a peaceful and safe environment should be a priority for the country. Therefore, we once again urge the relevant authorities to promptly investigate these cases and regularly update the public on the progress of the investigations. Additionally, political parties must refrain from mobilizing their supporters at opponents’ campaign events, as this could escalate tensions and disrupt the electoral process.

The GYLA has already submitted requests to the relevant authorities for information on all reported cases. However, to date, the majority of these inquiries remain unanswered”, - says the organization.