UNM leader calls for ‘continued pressure’ on Georgian Gov’t

Irakli Pavlenishvili from the opposition United National Movement has called for continued domestic and international pressure on the ruling authorities, saying the opposition must maintain what he described as resistance to authoritarianism.

Speaking to reporters, Pavlenishvili said pressure on the founder of the ruling party Bidzina Ivanishvili was increasing both inside and outside the country.

He said Western partners continued to demonstrate support for the Georgian people while taking a different approach towards the governing Georgian Dream party administration.

Pavlenishvili also stressed the importance of continuing international sanctions efforts against members of the government.

“We need struggle and resistance now. We do not accept authoritarianism,” he said, adding that remaining in opposition to the current authorities was “itself a plan”.

The opposition politician also argued that the public continued to demand a united opposition capable of removing what he described as “Russian-style rule” from Georgia.