U.S. Ambassador Richard Norland’s comment Regarding Protests at District Election Commissions (October 4)

Ambassador Richard Norland gives his statement to the Georgian Local Press in Zugdidi. Photo: State Dept

Today, U.S. Ambassador Richard Norland traveled to Zugdidi to reiterate U.S. support for the conclusion of the electoral process in a way that is free of intimidation and pursues challenges through recognized legal channels. The Ambassador expressed his concern that the week end as peacefully as it began, with people exercising their democratic rights without violence. As Ambassador Norland stated in Zugdidi, “This has been a remarkable week in the history of Georgia.  A democratic election has produced a peaceful transition of power.  But that process is not entirely finished.  In some parts of the country, the DECs are still counting the ballots and making final decisions on who won the seat. The important thing now, is that the representatives from the various parties of the DEC are able to carry out their work without fear of intimidation.  And most important thing is that if there are challenges to the results, that these challenges are pursued peacefully through the legal process.  The entire world is watching and hopes that this process will continue to unfold peacefully.”