Georgia's sixth president, Mikheil Kavelashvili, whose legitimacy is not recognized by his predecessor, as well as the opposition and a significant part of civil society, has issued a decree on holding local government elections on October 4, 2025, the press service reports. The document was signed by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze.

Recall that most of the opposition has decided to boycott the upcoming municipal elections. Only the Girchi, Gakharia for Georgia and Lelo - Strong Georgia parties intend to participate, and this has led to harsh criticism from other opposition movements. In this context, UNM member Irakli Pavlenishvili said that agreeing to participate in the elections is "either an inadequate assessment of the political situation, or you put up with the system and become a systemic opposition. Because all dictators need a systemic opposition."

In early July, Kavelashvili addressed the convicted politicians with a proposal on his Facebook page. He called on them to apply for pardon and confirm their desire to participate in the upcoming local elections, promising to immediately issue a pardon in that case.