2016-09-09
According to him, over the past four years the country's policies have changed considerably, and so have voters' attitudes toward politics and the pre-election process.
"It stems from the negative experience in Georgia prior to 2012. Today, voters in the country see things differently. That is why I once again urge our supporters and local authorities to do their best to provide equal opportunities for every candidate, ensuring that there are no preferences and creating a level playing field for everyone in the run-up to the election. Because our attitude is completely different, we are convinced that we can create an essentially different electoral environment.
We have invited more observers than ever before in the history of Georgia to monitor the pre-election period and assess the country's transformation. In addition, I urge our supporters to abstain from violence and abusive conduct that were introduced in the past by the United National Movement. Such behavior is unacceptable. Our worldviews are totally different. Today our voters and citizens appreciate totally different qualities. Hence, any potential violence in the pre-election process will only negatively affect the image of the government," the Prime Minister of Georgia noted.
The Head of Government once again urged his supporters to avoid confrontation.
The Prime Minister also instructed the Minister of Interior to employ all necessary resources to avoid any provocation.
"I wish to assign the Minister of Internal Affairs of Georgia to use every potential instrument prescribed by national legislation to avoid any confrontation. Please mobilize all resources to this end-regardless of who is involved-especially if the opposition forces are at risk of violence. However, ruling party representatives should also enjoy the same legitimate rights. They need to be protected also. I reiterate that we are a political power most interested in maintaining public order in the country by holding transparent and democratic elections. If anyone is interested in maintaining stability, it is, first of all, the Government," the Prime Minister of Georgia added.
The Prime Minister also noted that the numerous achievements that have been commended by international partners and asserted that nobody will ever be allowed to cast a shadow over this process.
"These achievements are very precious to all of us. They are a result of the tremendous effort of many people and the blood shed by our compatriots. Therefore, I will not allow anyone to cast a shadow over this success, nor will I allow to threaten the process of this most substantial development, which is ongoing in Georgia today," the Prime Minister of Georgia stated.
Prime Minister's Press Office