Saakashvili Declared Victor in Georgia Vote
Posted Jan 6, 08 11:06 CST in
World
(Newser)
–
Official results today showed Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili won re-election with 52.8% of the vote, thus avoiding a runoff election that could've given detractors the chance to unite behind a single candidate, the BBC reports. Protesters claimed foul play, opposition leaders alleged unfair conditions and violations, and main challenger Levan Gachechiladze spoke of "terror" at the polls.
A European election watchdog, meanwhile, gave a reserved approval, and said the outcome should be respect—while pointing out "significant challenges" and an “inequitable campaign environment.” Gachechiladze placed a distant second, with 27% of the vote.
Sources:
BBC,
Associated Press
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