Civil society organizations are addressing reports from several sources concerning the ruling party’s illegal attempts to instill fear in voters and influence the free expression of their will using administrative resources, intimidation, and coercion.
According to information from several independent sources, representatives of the ruling party have been unlawfully seizing personal identification documents from public sector employees and individuals in vulnerable social groups against their will. These actions are reportedly widespread and extend beyond a single administrative region or public institution. Incidents have been recorded in various locations, including Zugdidi, Kvareli, Kutaisi, and Tbilisi. The government's use of such tactics appears designed to intimidate voters, leading them to believe that the secrecy of their vote on election day will not be preserved. Moreover, this behavior could be an attempt to manipulate the outcome of the election itself.
The Constitution of Georgia unequivocally guarantees the right of every individual to make their electoral choice freely, without coercion, in an environment of equality and secrecy.
Any unlawful confiscation of personal identification documents, particularly without the consent of the individual, represents a blatant violation of the law, including the Georgian Law on the Protection of Personal Data. In addition, the illegal acquisition, retention, use, dissemination, or provision of access to personal data constitutes a criminal offense.
Coalition “Me Vote for EU” urges the ruling party to immediately cease any efforts to subvert the constitutionally enshrined right of voters to express their will freely. We will continue to monitor and provide oversight during the pre-election period.