Election boycott in Georgia: Why the opposition no longer wants to play accomplice

Revolt against the authoritarian spectacle – Tsutskiridze on boycott, democracy and Germany’s role

On July 19, the central avenues of Tbilisi filled with hundreds of demonstrators following a clear call: boycott the upcoming local elections on October 4. What at first glance appeared to be an ordinary rally quickly revealed itself to be a powerful political staging—not in service of the regime, but against it.

Organized by an alliance of opposition parties and civil society groups, the protest march was an expression of a strategy that many consider risky but necessary: the deliberate withdrawal of legitimacy. After the controversial parliamentary elections of October 26, 2024, which international observers such as the European Parliament described as neither free nor fair, it seems clear to many in the opposition: whoever plays along now is playing along.

“A Russian play – without us”

In an interview with Tbilisi24, Levan Tsutskiridze, leader of the opposition party Freedom Square, explained why his movement does not view the vote as a democratic act, but as an institutionalized deception.

"Participating in the local elections would mean retroactively legitimizing the fraudulent results of October 26," said Tsutskiridze. "This is not just a moral stance—it is an act of political self-defense. We refuse to participate in the Russian-inspired theatrics."

Unsurprisingly, he refers to the narrative of “show democracy,” in which form and procedure may appear intact, but the content has long since been undermined by abuse of power and authoritarian control.

Constitution versus reason?

Legally speaking, the local elections are independent of the parliamentary elections—they must take place anyway, according to the constitution. But Tsutskiridze counters:

"We, too, have constitutional rights—including the right to refuse to participate when a system is abused. This isn't about retreating, but about shifting the battlefield: from the ballot box to the streets."

Gakharia, Khukhashvili and the myth of strategic participation

Not all opposition figures share Tsutskiridze's analysis. Representatives of former Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia's party, for example, advocate active participation in the local elections—as a platform for countering propaganda. Tsutskiridze remains calm but firm:

"The real battleground lies not in the polling stations, but in public refusal. Anyone who steps onto the government's stage gives it exactly what it wants: the appearance of normality."

Political scientists like Gia Khukhashvili also argue for "tactical participation." Tsutskiridze's response is polite but unequivocal:

"You're welcome to see it that way. I think it's a mistake. Our goal is a free country—that requires clarity, not a willingness to compromise with unfreedom."

Boycott as a prelude – not as a retreat

Tsutskiridze doesn't want to allow any misunderstanding to arise: The boycott isn't the end of the political commitment—it's the beginning. A new nationwide campaign is already being prepared. The focus: the rural regions where "Georgian Dream" maintains its last strongholds.

"We will build a pluralistic, inclusive, and sustainable political movement. One that doesn't just say what's wrong, but also shows how things can be done better."

Using direct democracy and participatory formats, the movement aims to regain trust where it is most needed: outside the capital.

Germany as a lighthouse

When asked about the international dimension of the Georgian resistance, Tsutskiridze particularly emphasizes the role of Germany.

"Germany is more than just a partner for us. It is a reliable anchor in stormy times. While Georgian Dream throws smokescreens and spreads disinformation, Berlin remains clear—and for that, we are grateful."

When asked whether a more intensive sanctions policy could be expected, Tsutskiridze remained diplomatic but confident:

"I believe that Germany is watching very closely what is happening here – and drawing the right conclusions. Friendship will return, stronger than ever."

Between hope and reality: What comes after the boycott?

The big question remains: Can an election boycott achieve anything in an already fragmented political system? For Tsutskiridze, the answer lies in credibility. An opposition that cannot be corrupted – that is his vision.

"Democracy doesn't ask for permission. It demands its own. And we demand a state that belongs to us—not to oligarchs, not to foreign powers."

Whether this strategy succeeds depends not only on the opposition's perseverance, but also on Europe's ability to finally tear the mask off Georgia's democratic theater.

New front lines – old system

July 19 could go down as a turning point in Georgia's political history—as the moment when parts of the opposition decided against the institutional self-deception. Not because they had no alternatives, but because they no longer wanted to support the farce.

Whether this resistance bears fruit remains to be seen. One thing is clear, however: the streets of Tbilisi aren't just protesting against elections. They're fighting for a different Georgia.