Georgian PM: Elections Taught Us a Lot
Georgian Prime Minister Mamuka Bakhtadze commented on the October 28 presidential elections, saying the results showed that some very important changes are necessary in the country as soon as possible.
“We received a clear message from Georgian society, one pointing out our mistakes and the expectations our society has in relation to particular challenges concerning our citizens and their families. This election has taught us much, showing that a lot must be changed in the country in the shortest possible period. This message from our society has been received and taken in,” he said.
Bakhtadze stated that society decides Georgia’s future, adding this choice will serve as the precondition of the country's unification, building and irreversible democratic development.
“Accordingly, for the second round we will act unanimously and will ensure the unity of our supporters, who for different reasons, did not vote in the elections. After the second round we will together celebrate the victory of the values we are all fighting for,” he added.
The PM thanked the Election Administration, both local and international observation missions represented in significant numbers during the election.
He also thanked ruling Georgian Dream (GD) supporters and activists for their support and active participation in the election process.
“The presidential elections were held in a peaceful, free, and democratic environment, as confirmed by the reports of international observation missions. That has become a tradition under our government since 2012, and that is the Georgian people's achievement,” the PM noted.
The final results of the elections, published by the Georgian Central Election Commission (CEC) shows that the GD-backed presidential candidate, Salome Zurabishvili is leading with 38.64% of votes, followed by the United Opposition candidate Grigol Vashadze - 37.74%.
The runoff will be held in Georgia on December 2.
By Thea Morrison
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