From Elections to Elections – People Evaluate Current Situation in the Country

Shorena Kakabadze, Kutaisi

Coalition Georgian Dream positively evaluates past one year after the 2012 Parliamentary Elections under their governance.

Leaders of the United National Movement and other political parties think differently. They believe the situation has not significantly changed for the past year. Moreover, they observe political and social-economic regress in the country.

What do people, voters, think about it? What has changed for the past year, since the last elections?

Giorgi Javakhadze, economist, 40: “I think there are more positive changes than negative; for example in medical insurance. Also, there is some progress in the education field. I mean payments were canceled in kindergartens; free text-books were distributed in schools. I have not heard any fact of property seizure for the past year. I also welcome legislative initiative on restricting sale of lands to foreign citizens. I hope the government will pay attention to Kutaisi and all problems, like water-supply, etc will be resolved.”

Lela Tolordava, journalist, 40: “I think our expectations from 2012 parliamentary elections did not come true. A year ago, people enthusiastically changed the government. Unfortunately, now people are frustrated. For that reason, I think people are a bit confused for the upcoming elections. This is first time when I cannot predict the results of the presidential elections.”

Nikusha Kidasheli, economist, 43: “I still recall the pre-election period of October 1, 2012 parliamentary elections with fear. I was afraid of what could happen if the United National Movement had again gained victory. I might make unpopular statement, but believe me, I was really afraid of that. It is fact that living in our country was unbearable. I was happy with the election results like entire Georgia and hoped for the improvement of living conditions. One year has passed in our expectation. I do not want to wait after presidential elections too. I want changes to start.”

Irma Revishvili, housewife, 37: “Unfortunately, after October 1, 2012 Parliamentary Elections nothing has changed for people. Maybe, there were some positive changes for government members but it is fact that nothing was done in reality. As for the presidential elections, let us see what will happen. I doubt none of the nominated presidential candidates impress us greatly.”

Nato Goksadze, saleswoman, 55: “I do not want to believe it but employment is still a serious problem. Besides that Russia still continues its politics towards us; we still complain about wires; people live in fear. Constructions are also hindered. However, they increased pension and it is important. Presumably, we will have some positive changes too. Much depends on the presidential elections. I want to be optimist. I want my children live in independent and strong country without Russian annexation and other social problems.