The expert assessed the new rules for holding elections in Georgia

The Georgian authorities have approved a new Electoral Code, the document says that foreign polling stations will no longer be opened. Vladimir Zharikhin, Deputy Director of the Institute of CIS Countries, considers the decision redundant.

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"Citizens should have equal voting rights. The State is called upon to ensure and comply with this norm. Formally, of course, now in Georgia we are not talking about a direct ban on voting for those who are abroad, they can come home specifically for this purpose. In reality, it is difficult to do this, the number of those who will be able to express their will will be greatly reduced. I don't think it's right," he says.

Earlier, the Georgian parliament adopted amendments to the Electoral Code in the final reading. The main change is that citizens will no longer be able to vote outside the country. In addition, it is forbidden to make audio recordings at polling stations, those convicted under criminal articles and fined by the court cannot work in election commissions.

General local elections were held in Georgia in October, and the ruling party won in all municipalities. After the vote, a protest rally was held in Tbilisi, during which participants tried to seize the presidential palace. The authorities accused foreign intelligence agencies of organizing the rallies.

Read more about the new election rules adopted by the Parliament of Georgia in the Izvestia article:

Voices inside: why are the election rules being changed in Georgia

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