Parliamentary elections in Georgia took place with "significant violations," which seriously jeopardized the democratic integrity of the electoral process, statement to a statement by the International ENEMO Mission.

ENEMO noted that the elections in Georgia were held "in a polarized and restrictive environment, undermining inclusivity, transparency, and fairness, significantly threatening the democratic integrity of the electoral process."

According to observers, "serious violations included violence against opposition members, voter intimidation, defamation campaigns against observers, and widespread abuse of administrative resources."

"The restrictive enforcement of pre-election campaign rules limited competition, put significant pressure on civil society and the media, and reduced space for criticizing the government," said the head of the Mission, Zlatko Vujović.

The Mission also expressed concerns about the "independence and impartiality of the Central Election Commission (CEC)."

According to Vujović, "the elections took place in an extremely polarized political context, intensified by disagreements over legislation, particularly regarding the adoption of the 'foreign agents' law, which triggered mass protests against the government."

In total, 216 complaints were filed with election management bodies:

• regarding the activities of precinct election commissions – 78,
• abuse of administrative resources – 28,
• violations in campaigning – 75.

"Another 40 complaints are under review, only 17 were upheld, while the rest were rejected," the observers noted.

The "Georgian Dream" party, led by billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili, received just over 54% of the votes in the parliamentary elections,according to results from more than 99% of the districts, reported Radio Liberty's Georgian Service.

The United National Movement, leading the "Unity to Save Georgia" coalition, rejected the results reported by Georgia’s electoral authorities.

"We declare on behalf of the United National Movement that we do not accept the results of these stolen elections and do not intend to recognize the outcome of these stolen elections," said the party's leader, Tina Bokuchava.

She urged other opposition parties to also challenge the announced results, adding that "large protests" were likely to occur later in the day.

Mamuka Khazaradze, the leader of "Strong Georgia," insisted that the opposition had won the elections, which are crucial for the future path of the Caucasus nation in Europe.

On Saturday, October 26, voting took place in Georgia's parliamentary elections.

For the first time, 150 members of the legislative body will be elected not through a mixed system, as before, but entirely through a proportional system. To enter the XI convocation of parliament, parties need to surpass a five-percent threshold.

These elections are called historic, as their outcome could indicate either future integration with the EU or closer ties with Moscow.