Candidates able to compete freely in Georgian mayoral run-offs, but improvements needed to election-related laws, OSCE/ODIHR observers say
TBILISI, 13 November 2017 – The 12 November mayoral run-off elections in six Georgian districts were well administered, candidates were able to compete freely and fundamental rights were generally respected in a shortened, low-key campaign, the election observers from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) concluded in a preliminary statement released today. At the same time, shortcomings in the process highlighted the need for improvements to the laws governing elections, the statement says.
“The election administration at all levels handled the preparations in a generally professional and timely manner, including in ensuring the full membership of lower commissions and by providing additional training,” said Corien Jonker, head of the ODIHR election observation mission. “The absence of certain regulations specifically related to the second round, the late start of campaigning in the media, and the prohibition against candidates withdrawing ahead of second-round voting all show the need for further reform of the legal framework.”
The legal framework generally provides an adequate basis for the democratic conduct of elections, but leaves aspects of the second round under-regulated or ambiguous. Run-offs are held between the two candidates with the most first-round votes, although the United National Movement announced it would not take part in the second round. As the Election Code does not permit second-round candidates to withdraw, this essentially left two of the six races uncontested, the observers said.
Freedom of expression was respected in the media during the second-round campaign. Instructions to broadcasters from the media regulator meant they could only begin allocating free airtime and offering paid advertisements on 2 November, limiting the opportunity for contestants to campaign through the media. Some local outlets provided regular coverage, but the run-offs were largely ignored in the national media, with the ruling Georgian Dream party dominating political news broadcasts.
“A predominant political position brings with it a responsibility to ensure that reforms to address the shortcomings identified are carried out in a consultative process, involving all electoral stakeholders, and that they ensure a level playing field for all wishing to compete as candidates,” Jonker said.
Some 1,000 complaints filed after the first round with the central and district election commissions were reviewed in an open and collegial manner, respecting due process guarantees and legal deadlines. However, many were dismissed on procedural or formalistic grounds, and this undermined candidates’ and voters’ rights to effective remedy and public confidence in the dispute resolution process.
Different from the first round, the misuse of state resources was not raised as a major concern in the run-offs, although instances of possible pressure and intimidation raised concern. Election day proceeded in a smooth and professional manner, with voting, counting and tabulation assessed positively by observers.
The voter lists were updated to delete deceased voters and enter those who turned 18 years of age between rounds. In an inclusive manner, the Central Election Commission extended the validity of existing observer accreditations and provided the opportunity for additional accreditations.
For further information, contact:
Thomas Rymer, OSCE/ODIHR, +995 591 040 739 or +48 609 522 266, thomas.rymer@odihr.pl