The Messenger – Georgia State Security warns of fake images leaking as elections approach

On October 16, the Georgian State Security Service (SSSG) revealed a potential scheme involving fabricated video and audio recordings targeting government officials. According to the SSSG, the political groups plan to publish this false content just days before the October 26 legislative elections, with the aim of sparking conflicts within the government, straining ties with the Orthodox Church and damaging relations of Georgia with its Western allies.

The SSSG says the footage will be presented as a leak from within their own agency, with the aim of both discrediting the Service and sparking political protests. These groups reportedly aim to cause instability and public unrest in the run-up to the elections.

The SSSG statement emphasizes that it feels obliged to inform the public in advance to safeguard the security of the state. They warned of potential manipulation aimed at creating disorder for political purposes. The agency also stressed that it is actively monitoring these groups and will respond to any violations of the law related to the project.

In response to a statement from the security services, 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 the finger at “the radical opposition and its foreign backers,” suggesting that internal and external actors are conspiring against the government.

While recognizing the existence of these political forces, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that their actions would not affect the election results. “I think such acts cannot have any influence on the election results,” he said. 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 negative influence on these elections,” Kobakhidze added. He stressed the importance of maintaining a secure electoral environment and thanked the SSSG for its efforts to safeguard the democratic process.