Kakha Kaladze, Secretary-General of the ruling Georgian Dream party and Mayor of Tbilisi, extended gratitude to law enforcement on Wednesday for their efforts in maintaining peace and order following what he described as protests against the foreign transparency bill that escalated into violence.

While affirming the fundamental right to freedom of expression, Kaladze emphasized the need for peaceful protest, stating that actions exceeding these bounds would be met with lawful measures.

"Despite initial peaceful intentions, last night's demonstration unfortunately spiraled into violence, resulting in property damage and attacks on law enforcement," Kaladze remarked. "Since 2012, we have made strides in fostering a culture of dissent, but it is imperative that such expressions remain within legal parameters. Blocking administrative buildings and resorting to aggression against police officers is unacceptable."

Kaladze reiterated the government's commitment to maintaining stability and thwarting any attempts at destabilization. "Our adversaries thrive on chaos, seeking to undermine our progress and manipulate our nation. We will not permit radical forces, whether domestic or foreign, to sow discord through revolution or coup. Change must be pursued through democratic means, not violence."

He thanked law enforcement for restoring order, acknowledging the Minister of Internal Affairs and all officers involved. Additionally, Kaladze addressed a recent public gathering on Rustaveli Avenue organized by the ruling party in support of the bill, underscoring the nation's pursuit of European integration "while safeguarding sovereignty and minimizing foreign influence."

"The people of Georgia seek European integration on their own terms, with dignity and sovereignty preserved," he stated. "Our priority is empowering our citizens and reducing undue external influences. European integration remains our objective, but it must be pursued in a manner that upholds our national identity and interests."

Opposition parties and civil society groups have criticized the proposed foreign transparency bill as pro-Russian and as an attempt by the ruling party to stifle organizations advocating for democracy and EU integration.

Both the EU and the United States have cautioned Georgian authorities that passing this legislation could hinder the country's progress toward EU accession. The bill mandates that NGOs register and submit financial declarations annually, with penalties of 25,000 GEL for non-compliance.

Western-funded NGOs and media outlets contend that their financial transparency and compliance are already evident, suggesting that the government's true aim is to restrict organizations addressing human rights and corruption.