Public apathy rules when it comes to political promises

One of the most popular topics during the pre-election campaign is the topic of socio-economics. Some think that this is a good sign that society has matured, others challenge it and explain this is a preventive step for a possible social explosion. Others think that this is a reflection of the existing reality and the parties are using it for their benefit. Either way, all political parties heavily exploit the topic and give out different types of attractive slogans and promises.

Society is fed up with the promises of both the ruling power and the others. However, today the situation is slightly different, as Bidzina Ivanishvili leader of opposition coalition Georgian Dream, is a billionaire who achieved miracles by his dedication and tiresome work. So this fact provides extra weight to the promises given out by the Georgian Dream coalition.

The ruling United National Movement is in a different position. After eight-years of governance, the public is exhausted by the list of promises whereas the major question the population asks the UNM is very simple: “you had eight years to provide welfare to your population, is it not enough?”

During this period the current administration has been feeding Georgian people with many promises and slogans.

New PM, Vano Merabishvili has been very popular recently because of his successful police reforms and the elimination of corruption within the police department, as well as the secure criminal situation in the country. With this reality in the background the themes of foreign policy are little bit in the shadow. There are fewer speculations about entering NATO, integrating with the EU, restoring territorial integrity of the country as well as the relations with Russia. These were the topics often used by the Rose Revolution leaders from the very beginning of their activities in the country.

The ruling UNM however is using some of foreign relations topics for its advantage, labeling the Georgian Dream coalition and its leadership as pro-Russian forces. It is constantly disseminating various controversial facts and arguments to convince the population that voting for the Georgian Dream coalition means returning Georgia back to the Russian orbit.

Opposition analysts however, bring multiple counter arguments and attempt to prove that it is exactly the UNM that is actively promoting Russian politics in Georgia and supporting Russian entry into the Georgian economy. Just one month is left before the elections and observers have the feeling that in Georgia the political rhetoric has usually more emotions than common sense.