TBILISI – Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili accused the ruling Georgian Dream party on Monday of using Russian-inspired tactics and propaganda in a contentious election that she claims has inflated the party’s actual share of votes. Describing the result as a “Russian special operation,” Zourabichvili suggested that the campaign tactics mirrored Russian propaganda methods, though she did not present evidence of direct Russian intervention.
Zourabichvili highlighted that the pre-election propaganda appeared to duplicate Russian political media, comparing it to content from President Vladimir Putin’s campaigns. However, the Kremlin has denied any involvement, countering that Western nations, not Russia, were attempting to destabilize Georgia.
The electoral commission reported that Georgian Dream won nearly 54% of the vote. However, Zourabichvili claimed the party only achieved around 40%, aligning with exit polls indicating an opposition majority in parliament. Western observers raised concerns over voting irregularities and called for a thorough investigation.
Following the disputed outcome, Zourabichvili urged Georgians to demonstrate against the results, emphasizing the protest would be a statement of commitment to a “European future.” Since breaking with Georgian Dream, the Paris-born former diplomat has become a prominent critic of the party and a key broker among opposition groups aiming to oust the ruling government.
Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze dismissed the accusations, claiming the opposition was trying to disrupt the country’s constitutional order, but reiterated his government’s commitment to European integration. The election represents a setback for pro-Western Georgians who hoped to push the country towards European alignment amid concerns over Georgian Dream’s deepening ties with Russia.