ICG CALLS ON GEORGIAN GOVERNMENT TO HOL FREE AND FAIR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS

armradio.am
20.12.2007 17:31

The International Crisis Group calls on the Georgian Government to hold
free and fair presidential election on 5 January 2008, respectfully
approach media freedom, civil liberties and human rights, the Group’s
latest report on Georgia says.

The International Crisis Group calls on Tbilisi to ensure transparency
and accountability in the implementation of reforms, and pursue open
and democratic governance, in particular by: applying the rule of
law without arbitrariness and ensuring the judiciary is independent
and free from intimidation; engaging in a constructive dialogue with
opposition parties.

In addition, Georgia is recommended to explore areas of potential
cooperation with Russia, including on trade, transport, border control
and fighting terrorism, organised crime and proliferation of weapons
and drugs, engage in genuine dialogue with Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

In its report, International Crisis Group calls on to the USA,
European Union, NATO and member countries of both organizations to
support democratic governance, not a particular regime; and increase
support to civil society, the public defender and efforts to strengthen
media freedom.