The elections in Georgia were a lesson in democracy for the Eastern Partnership countries

 

Statement by Mr Kristian Vigenin, Co-President of the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly on the outcome of the parliamentary elections in Georgia

Parliamentary elections took place in Georgia on 1 October. Judging by the outcome, the real winner in Georgia is democracy - the voice of the people was respected. Although the campaign was largely polarized and on numerous occasions there were accusations of influencing the vote by misuse of financial resources or by abuse of institutional authority, the high turnout and the generally positive assessment of Election Day legitimize the election results.

Furthermore, they are a sign that political leaders on both sides are following the citizens' commitment to the democratic future of Georgia. I would like to extend my congratulations to the Georgian Dream coalition and use the opportunity to remind its leaders that amidst the celebration, they should not forget the difficult path of reforms ahead for the country and the responsibility that lies in their hands.

I also commend the authorities and especially the Central Election Committee for securing the fairness and transparency of the election procedures. I would like to welcome the statements made by President Saakashvili as well as by the leader of Georgian Dream coalition Bidzina Ivanishvili on their commitment to work together in building the country. Working together will be challenging without a doubt, but the cooperation between government and opposition and between the institutions in a democratic state is the key to stability. Now, when the winner is clear, the strong political tension of the election campaign has to be replaced by constructive political debate for the benefit of the people. Both loss and victory should be met with dignity and grace.

I am looking forward to welcome the new Georgian delegation to the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly as soon as possible, hoping that the spirit of open cooperation and friendship will be preserved.