Georgian Dream: ‘radical protesters physically, psychologically abusing society’

The ruling Georgian Dream party has accused anti-government demonstrators of “physically and psychologically abusing the Georgian public,” claiming that small groups of “radical protesters” have been disrupting public order on a daily basis.

At a briefing held at the party’s central office, Giorgi Grdzelishvili, head of Georgian Dream’s communications office, said that the government will not allow such actions to continue and that law enforcement agencies will take appropriate measures.

“The public clearly sees that every evening, several dozen radical protesters physically and psychologically abuse the Georgian people. This is simply unimaginable,” Grdzelishvili said. “In many cases, they block roads without any legal or physical justification - their only goal is to shut down Rustaveli Avenue for a few hours and call it a victory. This cannot continue, and relevant authorities will address it.”

Grdzelishvili also referred to the 4 October rally, describing it as part of an attempted overthrow of the government. He said that every participant had been repeatedly warned in advance about the legal consequences of violating public order.

“Everyone who attended the 4 October rally knew exactly what they were doing,” he said. “Attempts to avoid responsibility will not work - everyone will be held accountable before the law.”

Citing earlier public statements, Grdzelishvili recalled that Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and other senior officials had warned citizens about potential provocations and legal repercussions:

• On 30 September, Kobakhidze said: “We must warn everyone, especially those planning to attend, to stay away from such schemes.”
  
  

• On the same day, he added: “We take no pleasure in arrests, but anyone who breaks the law will face the consequences.”
  
  

• On 3 October, Kobakhidze again cautioned protesters: “Let’s warn everyone — don’t end up behind bars in vain.”
  
  

• The head of the State Security Service, Mamuka Mdinaradze, also warned: “Anyone who breaks the law or participates in provocations will face legal action.”
  
  

According to Grdzelishvili, the opposition, along with certain professionals such as “professors, doctors, and students,” had been clearly informed of the consequences but proceeded regardless.

“Everyone was warned - and everyone who participated in this anti-constitutional attempt to overthrow the government will answer before the law,” Grdzelishvili concluded.