Georgia's Election Controversy: President Challenges Legitimacy

Georgia is embroiled in electoral controversy after President Salome Zourabichvili claimed voter fraud in the recent parliamentary election, alleging manipulation by the Georgian Dream party. An investigation is underway, but Zourabichvili refuses to provide evidence, citing it as the prosecutor's responsibility.

State prosecutors in Georgia have initiated an investigation following allegations of vote-rigging in last weekend's parliamentary election. The probe comes amid claims from President Salome Zourabichvili, who argues the vote count was falsified in favor of the ruling Georgian Dream party.

Despite being summoned to testify, Zourabichvili insists it is not her role to supply proof of electoral fraud, pointing to observers and citizens as the source of evidence. Her stance has stirred debate over legal responsibilities in a country with a complex post-Soviet history marked by war and political upheaval.

Election observers, including the OSCE, noted incidents of intimidation and irregularities, although they stopped short of declaring the process entirely rigged. Official results show Georgian Dream secured 54% of the vote, yet the opposition plans to boycott parliament, alleging fraudulent practices influenced by Russian tactics.

(With inputs from agencies.)