Georgian Opposition Protests Election Results

Mass protests erupted in Tbilisi, Georgia, following allegations of electoral fraud in the October 26 parliamentary elections, which the ruling Georgian Dream party claims to have won with approximately 54% of the vote. Opposition leaders, including President Salome Zourabichvili, have declared the results illegitimate, asserting they reflect a Russian influence aimed at undermining Georgia's aspirations to join the European Union. Zourabichvili called for a rally to contest what she described as a 'total falsification' of the election, urging support from Western nations to safeguard Georgian democracy. Security concerns have increased as both opposition supporters and the ruling party prepare for potential clashes, with the latter reportedly mobilizing riot police. International observers criticized the election conditions, citing intimidation and manipulation, leading to a broader call for electoral reform. As tensions rise, the situation poses significant risks for political stability in Georgia.