Georgian CEC responds to video showing ballot stuffing

Background

On 30 October 2022, a video was released on Telegram purportedly showing ballot stuffing in Georgia's recent parliamentary elections.

The video shows a group of people stuffing ballot boxes with stacks of ballots. The video was allegedly taken at a polling station in the city of Rustavi.

CEC's Response

The Georgian Central Election Commission (CEC) has released a statement in response to the video, saying that it is investigating the allegations.

The CEC also said that it has not yet been able to verify the authenticity of the video, but it is taking the allegations seriously.

If the allegations are proven to be true, the CEC said that it will take appropriate action.

Reactions from Political Parties

The release of the video has sparked outrage from opposition political parties.

The United National Movement (UNM) has accused the ruling Georgian Dream party of rigging the election.

The UNM has also called for the resignation of CEC chairwoman Tamar Zhvania.

Calls for an Investigation

Civil society groups have also called for an independent investigation into the allegations of ballot stuffing.

The Georgian Young Lawyers' Association (GYLA) has said that it is concerned about the allegations and has called for a transparent investigation.

GYLA has also said that it will monitor the CEC's investigation and will take legal action if necessary.

Conclusion

The allegations of ballot stuffing in Georgia's parliamentary elections are serious. It is important that the CEC investigates these allegations thoroughly and transparently.

The CEC must also take appropriate action if the allegations are proven to be true.

The integrity of Georgia's elections is essential for the country's democracy. The CEC must do everything it can to ensure that the elections are fair and transparent.