Opposition march: signatures to be delivered to President for ex-Pres. Saakashvili’s release

Opposition leaders are leading a march in western Georgia, intending to gather at the Tbilisi residence of President Salome Zourabichvili to present signatures collected over recent weeks, advocating for the release of imprisoned former President Mikheil Saakashvili.

Spearheaded by Sopio Japaridze, Saakashvili’s personal representative, along with Tsalenjikha Mayor Gia Kharchilava and United National Movement MP Temur Janashia, the march commenced from Tsalenjikha, where the UNM secured victory in the 2020 mayoral race.

The route includes planned stops at Zugdidi, Kutaisi, and Gori, where rallies will be held, culminating in a demand for Saakashvili’s release at the presidential administration, accompanied by the submission of collected signatures.

Japaridze underscored the “historic significance” of the day, citing the “vast number of citizens” expressing support for Saakashvili’s release. She urged Zourabichvili to “promptly decide” between the “paths of European democracy and Russian authoritarianism.”

Echoing this sentiment, Janashia emphasized Saakashvili’s freedom as essential for the country’s progress. He highlighted the “extensive support” garnered through collected signatures, emphasizing the “crucial role” Saakashvili’s release plays in fostering economic recovery, attracting global interest, and advancing reforms vital for Georgia’s future.

Currently holding only Ukrainian citizenship, Saakashvili faces accusations from GD authorities of attempting to incite unrest in the country and later involving Georgia in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.