State Security Service of Georgia Warns of Fake Leaked Footage Ahead of Elections
By Liza Mchedlidze
Thursday, October 17, 2024
On October 16, Georgia's State Security Service (SSSG) revealed a potential scheme involving fabricated video and audio recordings targeting government officials. According to the SSSG, political groups plan to release this fake content just days before the parliamentary elections on October 26, with the goal of sparking conflict within the government, straining ties with the Orthodox Church, and damaging Georgia's relations with Western allies.
The SSSG claims the footage will be framed as a leak from within their own agency, intending to both discredit the Service and ignite political protests. These groups allegedly aim to provoke instability and public unrest in the lead-up to the elections.
The SSSG's statement stressed that it felt compelled to notify the public in advance to safeguard state security. They warned of potential manipulation designed to create disorder for political purposes. The agency also emphasized that it is actively monitoring these groups and will respond to any legal violations related to the scheme.
In response to a statement from the Security Service, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze accused the opposition of seeking to undermine the country's stability.
Kobakhidze characterized the political landscape as being shaped by "forces that do not want good for our country." He specifically pointed to "the radical opposition and their foreign patrons," suggesting that both internal and external actors are conspiring against the government.
While acknowledging the existence of these political forces, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that their actions would not affect the election results. "I think that such acts cannot have any influence on the results of the elections," he stated. However, he praised the vigilance of state agencies, particularly the SSSG, for their proactive approach in informing the public about these potential threats.
"Of course, special attention is needed to ensure that no one can have any type of negative influence on these elections," Kobakhidze added. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a secure electoral environment and thanked the SSSG for its efforts in safeguarding the democratic process.
