U.S. Expresses Deep Concern Over Georgia's Political Situation Ahead of Elections
By Liza Mchedlidze
Friday, September 13, 2024
Ambassador Michael R. Carpenter, Special Advisor to President Joe Biden and Senior Director for Europe at the U.S. National Security Council, expressed deep concern about political developments in Georgia during an interview with the Voice of America on September 12. Carpenter highlighted the upcoming parliamentary elections as a critical moment for Georgia's democratic future, warning that the misuse of administrative resources and pressure on civil society and opposition figures could severely impede the country's democratic progress. He also confirmed that the U.S. will be closely monitoring the pre-election environment and election day itself.
Carpenter stated that the U.S. is worried about Georgia's current trajectory, noting that these concerns have been present for a long time. He pointed to the Foreign Agents Law as a symptom of the broader issues within the country. He also criticized statements made by Georgia's ruling party but emphasized that mere concern is insufficient to address the challenges.
When asked about possible U.S. actions before the elections, Carpenter declined to announce any sanctions but stated that the U.S. would hold individuals accountable for corruption, anti-Western activities, and abuse of power. He stressed that Washington has the necessary tools to take action if required.
Regarding the upcoming elections, Carpenter expressed hope for a free and fair process but raised concerns about the ruling party's recent moves, including the misuse of government resources and a pledge to ban opposition parties post-election. He stressed that the U.S. would continue to monitor developments, particularly in the lead-up to election day.
On the issue of Russian interference, Carpenter acknowledged Russia's malign influence across Europe and Georgia, but emphasized that it is the behavior of Georgian officials that remains under scrutiny. He noted that while Russia's involvement remains unclear, the focus should be on the actions of Georgia's government.
Carpenter also addressed the question of U.S.-Georgian relations, stressing that Georgia has benefited from bipartisan support in the U.S. for many years, a trend he expects will continue, regardless of the outcome of the U.S. elections.
Ambassador Carpenter underscored the importance of free and fair elections, stating that every election provides an opportunity to renew a country's democratic institutions. He warned that Georgia's democratic development could be hindered if the elections are not conducted properly, and called on the government to end pressure on civil society and opposition politicians, and to refrain from using administrative resources to influence the outcome.
