Georgia faces ‘tremendous challenges’ without new elections, release of political prisoners, opposition figure on hunger strike

Georgia’s political future will face “tremendous challenges” unless the government agrees to new parliamentary elections and the release of political prisoners, opposition figure Gedevan Pophkhadze has warned, as he continues a hunger strike outside Parliament.

Pophkhadze, a member of the Coalition for Change, said the protest will last until these two demands are met, arguing they are essential for restoring democratic legitimacy in the country.

“If these two demands - fair new elections and the release of political prisoners - are not fulfilled, the political future of this country will face tremendous challenges,” he stated.

He also confirmed that Father Dorote has offered Holy Communion to the hunger strikers, saying it would help them maintain strength and morale during the protest.

Several activists joined the hunger strike in front of Parliament, accusing the ruling party of suppressing democracy and detaining opponents on political grounds - claims the government denies.