President of Georgia said today that “the verdict was clear: the elections had failed to be held”.

“As President elected by the popular vote and representing the only independent institution, my assessment of the elections is as follows: in these elections, the most important rights, guaranteed by the constitution and international principles and standards reflected in several conventions, were violated.

The election results and the legitimacy of the new parliament have not been accepted by any of the opposition parties, as well as by a part of the society which does not recognize them and continues protests. The civil society and observer missions inside and outside the country have not recognized the elections as free and fair either.

Three weeks after the elections none of our democratic partners have recognized these elections. On the contrary, they are highlighting the violations and discussing pressure measures.

The verdict is clear. These elections failed. As a result, the country is in a very serious situation and, more importantly, under serious threat of political instability and crisis. Furthermore, political instability can lead to destabilization, the government is facing isolation, in addition to the economic and financial crises that are knocking at our door.

As President of the country, I cannot and will not allow this to happen. My plan consists of: 1) New elections, to be held as soon as possible. But this, she said depends on several crucial factors, such as an international investigation to identify the systemic violations that need to be corrected “so that we can have new free and fair elections; a new electoral administration; amendments to the electoral code. 2) Maintaining the political configuration that existed before October 26, with the existing parliament, government and president, so that the transition period to new elections is as stable as possible”, - said Salome Zourabichvili.