Follow our live blog for updates and results as Georgians vote in an election seen as a critical point in shaping the country’s future inside, or outside, of the EU.
Today’s vote has been described as one of the most critical for the South Caucasus nation of 3.7 million people, and also one of its most divisive.
The ruling Georgian Dream will see their 12-year grip on power threatened by four main opposition parties: United National Movement, Strong Georgia, Coalition for Change and For Georgia.
All four have subscribed to President Salome Zourabichvili’s “Georgian Charter”, an action plan that proposes they band together to establish a technical government following the election with the priority of re-opening accession talks with the European Union.
They accuse the ruling party of leading the country away from the EU and into Russia’s orbit. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze denies this, telling Euronews the party is committed to European integration and, “We have no diplomatic relations with Russia.”
So far, the turnout has been high with reports of scuffles and voting violations. Join us as we follow developments, including results and reactions.
