Georgian opposition groups on Sunday launched 24-hour protests in Tbilisi demanding new parliamentary elections following last month’s vote, with participants erecting over 20 tents and blocking key locations, including the central Chavchavadze Avenue, agenda.ge reports.
The demonstrations, organised by opposition groups Coalition for Change and Unity - National Movement, follow the Central Election Commission’s final summary of the October 26 elections last week, which declared the ruling Georgian Dream party the winner with 53.93 percent of the vote, which secured 89 parliamentary seats in the legislative body.
Opposition leaders have rejected the results as “rigged” and called on the public to join them in pressuring authorities for a new vote.
Tonight marks one of the most significant nights of protest in recent years”, Nika Gvaramia, the leader of the Coalition for Change, said while addressing supporters on Monday. He urged demonstrators to “remain steadfast” in what he described as a “long and tireless struggle to reclaim our country”.
Giorgi Vashadze, representing the Unity - National Movement, commended the turnout, saying “many doubted anyone would come, but they did. The protest continues as promised until 8pm”.
The demonstrators have blocked Chavchavadze Avenue, Melikishvili Avenue, Varaziskhevi, and Kekelidze Street, using rubbish containers and chairs to create barricades, while organisers were supporting them with food, hot drinks, and blankets throughout the night.
Reacting to the protests, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Monday dismissed the opposition’s efforts, claiming “they are in such a difficult situation that we would probably feel sorry for them if we did not understand the kind of evil force we are dealing with”.
He also confirmed the new Government composition and its programme would be presented to the Parliament for a vote of confidence on November 25.
