Georgian president concerned over election violence

Violent incidents and accusations of fraud mar local elections

Georgia's president has expressed concern over reports of violence and fraud during the country's recent local elections. Salome Zourabichvili said in a statement that she was "deeply concerned" by the incidents and called on all parties to respect the rule of law.

Several violent incidents were reported during the elections, including clashes between supporters of different parties and attacks on election officials. There were also allegations of vote-buying and intimidation.

Zourabichvili said that the violence and fraud "undermined the integrity of the elections" and called on the authorities to investigate the incidents and bring those responsible to justice. She also urged all parties to respect the results of the elections and to refrain from further violence.

Opposition parties allege fraud

Several opposition parties have alleged that the elections were rigged in favor of the ruling Georgian Dream party. They have pointed to the reports of violence and fraud, as well as the fact that the Georgian Dream party won a majority of the seats in the local councils.

The Georgian Dream party has denied the allegations of fraud and said that the elections were fair. The party has also called on the opposition to respect the results of the elections and to work together to address the challenges facing the country.

International observers express concern

International observers have also expressed concern over the conduct of the elections. The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) said that the elections were "overshadowed by allegations of intimidation and vote-buying." The OSCE also called on the authorities to investigate the allegations and to bring those responsible to justice.

The European Union also expressed concern over the reports of violence and fraud. The EU said that it was "important that all allegations of irregularities are investigated thoroughly and that those responsible are held accountable."

Tensions remain high

Tensions remain high in Georgia following the elections. The opposition parties have vowed to continue to protest the results of the elections and to demand new elections. The Georgian Dream party has said that it will not tolerate any attempts to destabilize the country.

The international community is urging all parties to refrain from violence and to work together to resolve the crisis. The OSCE has offered to mediate between the government and the opposition.