**Two Georgian Opposition Parties Seek to Retain Electoral Numbers**
In a move that highlights the ongoing tensions between Georgia’s opposition parties and the government, two major opposition groups – the United National Movement (UNM) and the Coalition for Change (CFC) – have applied to the Central Election Commission (CEC) to retain their electoral numbers.
According to sources close to the UNM, the party has submitted an application to the CEC to maintain its electoral number. This request is a standard procedure required by law, as per amendments made to the Electoral Code in 2021. The deadline for parties to apply was July 17 of this year, and failure to do so could result in losing their electoral numbers.
**Coalition for Change: “Procedural Application”**
The Coalition for Change has also submitted a similar application to retain its electoral number. In a statement released by the party, it emphasized that this procedural application is not related to participating in the upcoming local elections. The CFC has been vocal about its opposition to the current authoritarian regime and has refused to participate in what they consider rigged and illegitimate processes.
“We have made this procedural application because retaining our electoral number is essential for effective operations under the current conditions,” the statement read. “We are committed to the principles of non-cooperation with the regime and its isolation at all levels.”
**Commitment to Democracy**
The Coalition for Change has been consistent in its stance against participating in what they call “so-called local elections.” The party has refused to enter parliament, withdrawn lists, rejected funding, and declined to appear before a government-appointed commission. They maintain that only new, free, and fair parliamentary elections can bring about genuine change.
“We remain committed to our principles,” the statement emphasized. “We will continue to resist and isolate the regime at all levels.”
**A Message of Resilience**
The applications by these two opposition parties are a testament to their commitment to democratic values and resistance against authoritarianism. Despite the challenges and pressures they face, they continue to advocate for free and fair elections, which can restore trust in Georgia’s electoral process.
As one observer noted, “These actions demonstrate that even under difficult circumstances, Georgian opposition parties remain steadfast in their pursuit of democracy and accountability.”
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