EU calls for swift probe of alleged Georgian election irregularities

The European Union has urged the Georgian authorities to "swiftly, transparently and independently" investigate reported irregularities in the parliamentary elections on Saturday. The closely watched poll saw the ruling party, Georgian Dream, win a majority of seats with 54% of all votes, followed at a distance by several opposition parties.

A joint observation mission led by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) said the elections were "well organised and orderly" but found a "tense environment" and "widespread reports of pressure on voters", including cases of intimidation, coercion and vote-buying that "compromised" the secrecy of the vote.

"Those irregularities must be clarified and addressed. That is a necessary step to re-building trust in the electoral process," the European Commission and High Representative Josep Borrell said in a joint statement, stressing the need for "constructive and inclusive dialogue across the political spectrum."