We aim to inform the public about the widespread disinformation circulating in the media and on social networks. Such a statement Natia Ioseliani, the Spokesperson of the Central Election Commission, made at today’s briefing.

“This campaign of manipulative and unfounded information is intended to mislead voters. Ensuring the public has accurate information about the election process is a priority for the administration. We are committed to clarifying some of the most common misleading information.

After confirming that National Statistics Office data and voter lists were being systematically cross-referenced in an organized manner, new disinformation began spreading rapidly. The manipulative campaign continues with politically motivated individuals spreading claims that vote counting device printouts from different times show varying data.

In fact, in the 16th precinct of Khelvachauri, there were three vote counting devices. Initially, receipts showing the results from only two devices were printed, followed by consolidated report from all three devices. The consolidated receipt data from all three devices exactly matches the summary protocol report from the manual ballot count, both recording 1,404 ballots. This has been confirmed by the Precinct Election Commission staff.

Another manipulation concerns the issue of voting with invalid ID card in a precinct in Sagarejo. A false perception has been created that these incidents were widespread. A formal complaint has been filed regarding this case and will be reviewed according to the appropriate procedures. However, it is important to note that the individual who voted with the invalid ID card had a valid passport, which is why the individual in question was included in the unified voter list.

Manipulative information is also being spread regarding ballots. For instance, a local watchdog organization has published a photo of ballot showing one candidate crossed out, with none of the circles filled in. While such ballots are clearly deemed invalid, the organization falsely claims they were counted as legitimate. This can be easily verified by comparing the device-printed checks with the summary protocol.

Since this morning, representatives of various political subjects have been calling on the election administration to create a database of voters who have participated in the elections to allow voters to verify themselves in the list of voters who have come to polls.

It is well known to politicians that this action is limited by law, and the creation of such a database involves the risks of disclosing personal data, which is against one of the recognized fundamental principles of elections and good international practice.

Notably, no file was filed regarding this issue.

Based on the above, it is evident that party representatives are making unrealistic demands driven by their political agenda to create the impression that the election administration is concealing information.

Finally, we would like to address the discrediting statement made by the President of Georgia. Salome Zourabichvili unequivocally claims that election technologies were used to falsify the elections. We urge all electoral stakeholders to carefully review the conclusion of the American company “PRO V&V” regarding electronic technologies and to take legal action if any issues are found.

We remain committed to providing accurate information to the public and will not let disinformation go unchallenged”, - said Natia Ioseliani.