Ana Tsitlidze, chairwoman of the Zugdidi branch of the "United National Movement" (UNM), has accused supporters of the ruling "Georgian Dream" party, including individuals with criminal records, of confiscating the ID cards of citizens who oppose the party in the upcoming October 26 elections.

Tsitlidze claims that "Georgian Dream" supporters are engaging in these actions to prevent opposition-minded citizens from voting. She specifically named individuals allegedly involved in this scheme, including Avtandil Ghurtskaia, Kakha Fifia, and Zurab Djijelava, who she says are using intimidation and threats to seize the ID cards of opposition voters in areas such as Tsalenjikha, Jvari, and Martvili.

According to Tsitlidze, over 200 ID cards have already been confiscated in Zugdidi, though many have since been returned after intervention from her party. She expressed gratitude to the local residents who provided information about these activities and vowed to continue fighting against what she called an "illegal operation" being conducted by the ruling party.

"We have video and audio recordings of how these individuals are terrorizing the citizens of Georgia. We have provided this evidence to international organizations and monitoring bodies," Tsitlidze said. She gave those involved until 19:00 to return the confiscated ID cards and warned of consequences if they failed to comply.

Tsitlidze also highlighted the pressure some citizens are facing, including threats of losing social benefits, job dismissals, or being offered bribes in exchange for their ID cards. She claimed that these tactics were being used to suppress opposition participation in the elections.