In Georgia, law enforcement authorities used water cannons and pepper spray over the weekend to disperse demonstrators attempting to breach the presidential palace during a local election boycotted by major opposition groups in the South Caucasus nation amidst a crackdown on dissent.
A significant number of individuals gathered in Tbilisi, the capital, to voice their opposition to what they perceive as oppressive measures by the ruling conservative party, Georgian Dream, which they believe is steering the nation away from its democratic goals and towards closer ties with Russia.
The protesters, waving Georgian flags and advocating for European Union membership, a fundamental objective enshrined in the country’s constitution, expressed dissatisfaction after Georgian Dream ceased discussions about joining the EU, resulting in protests and clashes following the party’s victory in an election the opposition claimed was manipulated.
Despite the government implementing various restrictive measures targeting demonstrators, human rights organizations, NGOs, and independent media outlets, protests have persisted, echoing concerns that some regulations bear resemblance to those in Russia, where President Vladimir Putin has cracked down harshly on dissent.
“We are fighting for our rights, for independence,” stated protester Sophio Asatiani, emphasizing a rejection of a return to the era when Georgia was under Moscow’s rule.
Organizers of the rally, led by veteran opera singer Paata Burchuladze, urged participants to reclaim power for the people, reflecting widespread frustration with a government that has imprisoned key opposition figures, attempted to silence critical media, and resorted to mass arrests and hefty fines against mostly peaceful demonstrators.
Following the election day marked by a low turnout, political analyst Giorgi Rukhadze, who partook in the protests, dismissed the event as a “sham election,” advocating for nonviolent resistance as a means to peacefully remove Georgian Dream from power.
Georgian police cited violations of public assembly and protest regulations during the ongoing rally, without specifying details.
After the polls closed, the Central Election Commission reported no major disruptions during the vote, with results expected to be disclosed shortly.
While over 50 local and international organizations monitored the municipal election, major international watchdogs that oversaw the previous local vote in 2021 were notably absent this time, citing concerns over recent repressive laws by Georgian Dream and a broader deterioration in the political and legal climate in the country.