UNM’s Botkoveli: large crowd on Rustaveli Avenue is Gov’t’s main fear

Giorgi Botkoveli, regional secretary of the opposition United National Movement, said on Friday that the Government’s biggest fear was the large turnout expected at Saturday’s rally on Rustaveli Avenue in the Georgian capital city of Tbilisi.

“Tomorrow, people will come from every region, city, and village in Georgia. A huge crowd will gather on Rustaveli Avenue, and this is exactly what the Government is afraid of,” Botkoveli said.

He criticised Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s recent statements, arguing that the Government itself seeks unrest.

“If anyone wants disorder today, it is the Government. They are afraid of the people, not of unrest. That is their wish. They are trying to intimidate citizens, but I will be there with my children, who are making protest posters with their own hands,” he said.

Botkoveli emphasised that the presence of families and large numbers of demonstrators would be a show of strength. “

The more people gather on Rustaveli, the more pressure there will be for the Government not only to retreat but also to make concessions,” he noted, adding that “no one has ever defeated the people.”

Responding to questions about whether the rally was organised by the UNM, Botkoveli said the event was not formally arranged by the party but stressed his personal involvement.

“I have been fighting against this Government for 13 years. Nobody should be surprised that I will take part,” he said.

He also expressed disappointment with some opposition figures.

“It is regrettable that certain politicians are not preparing for the October 4 gathering or the so-called elections, but rather for taking seats in the opposition benches on October 5,” Botkoveli stated.