Families of detained protesters launch resistance movement against political repression

The families of individuals detained during recent protests in Georgia have announced the launch of a nationwide resistance movement, pledging to fight political repression and authoritarian rule.

“Our children, siblings, and friends are prisoners of conscience. They were arrested simply for peacefully protesting the government’s illegal actions, election fraud, the trampling of democratic principles, and the deviation from Georgia’s pro-Western course,” the families stated in a joint address.

The newly formed movement, Freedom for Prisoners of Conscience, demands: The immediate release of all unlawfully detained individuals, and new, free, and fair elections, allowing the people to determine their country’s future.

“This is not just about our loved ones. This is a fight for everyone who refuses to live under oppression,” the statement continued.

The families called on civil society, political parties, students, media, artists, teachers, doctors, and all citizens to join their cause. The movement will begin its public demonstrations on April 8, with an overnight gathering at the Memorial of Fallen Soldiers, leading into April 9, a day of national mourning for those who died fighting for Georgia’s independence.