Tbilisi (Georgia),Oct 5(HS): Mass anti-government protests intensified in Georgia as thousands of demonstrators clashed with security forces outside the Presidential Palace in Tbilisi on Saturday, demanding fresh parliamentary elections and the release of political prisoners.
The unrest, ongoing for over 300 days, turned violent after protesters attempted to breach security barricades along Atoneli Street, prompting police to respond with tear gas, pepper spray, and water cannons.
According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA), multiple incidents of violence were reported during the rally, and an investigation has been launched into charges including attacks on police, calls for violent overthrow of the constitutional order, and participation in mass unrest.
Fourteen police officers have been reported injured.Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze accused the rioters of carrying European Union flags and setting barricades ablaze outside the presidential complex. He alleged that “an organized attempt is being made to overthrow Georgia’s constitutional system under the pretext of protests.”
The opposition has been mobilizing since the disputed 2024 parliamentary elections, which were marred by allegations of fraud against the ruling Georgian Dream Party. International observers had also flagged irregularities in the conduct of the election, casting doubt on the legitimacy of the government.
After assuming office, Prime Minister Kobakhidze’s administration suspended negotiations on Georgia’s European Union accession, a move that angered pro-EU factions and galvanized opposition ranks.
The protests underscore deep divisions within the Georgian polity — between pro-Russian and pro-European camps. Critics accuse the government of drifting toward Moscow’s influence amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, while the ruling party insists that the unrest is being fueled by Western interference, particularly from the European Union.
Deputy Interior Minister Aleksandre Darakhvelidze told Georgia today that despite repeated warnings, protesters ignored legal orders, damaged public property, and attempted to storm the palace grounds. He confirmed that all incidents will be subject to a full criminal investigation.
The standoff marks one of the most serious challenges yet for the Kobakhidze government, with opposition leaders vowing to continue demonstrations at Freedom Square and Rustaveli Avenue until their demands — including snap elections — are met.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
