Officials, Observers Describe Election Process as “Normal”

Around 8,000 local and 450 international observers monitor Georgian polls.

Officials say elections are being held in “normal atmosphere, despite some minor procedural violations.” Polling stations were opened in Adjarian Autonomy as well, however President Saakashvili has already warned over alleged “anticipated raids on precincts in Adjara by the end of the elections day.”

“I can generally describe election process as normal. However, there were violations, especially in Kvemo Kartli region [which is traditionally notorious for ballot-rigging] and I request the General Prosecutor’s Office to investigate these violations,” Zurab Tchiaberashvili, the Chairman of the Central Election Commission told a press conference on March 28.

Election process in the Adjarian Autonomy, which is in the focus of attention, is also held in calm atmosphere. The Georgian Young Lawyers Association, which monitors elections, reports that no “serious violations have been observed in Adjara so far.” 

Earlier today President Saakashvili said that attacks on polling stations in Adjara are anticipated by the end of the elections day.

“I warn everybody, who intends to raid the precincts, that this kind of actions would have a very negative consequence for them,” Saakashvili told reporters.

Prime Minister Zurab Zhvania has already arrived in the troubled region to personally monitor situation in Adjara.

“I hope the elections in Adjara will be conducted in peaceful atmosphere. I intend to meet Adjarian leader during my visit,” Zurab Zhvania told reporters on March 28 upon his arrival in the Autonomous Republic.

“Free and fair elections in Adjara would create preconditions for solving many problems in the region. But we will not tolerate ballot fraud any more,” Nino Burjanadze, the Chairperson of the outgoing Parliament told reporters after casting a vote.

According to the election code voter turnout should reach 1/3 of total number of voters in order to validate parliamentary polls. However, total number of voters will be known only after the elections, as registration of voters continues on elections day as well. Up to now around 2,2 million citizens underwent voter registration process.