German Ambassador points to political repression as violence escalates in Georgia

The German Ambassador to Georgia, Peter Fischer, on Wednesday expressed concerns over rising political repression and violence in the country, warning that the developments were further straining Georgia’s aspirations for closer ties with the European Union.

In a post on his X page, Fischer lamented the contrast between recent messages of unity and peace during the holiday season and the escalating tensions on the ground.

“A sad day in Georgia,” Fischer wrote. “In recent weeks, everyone has been talking about love and peace on Christmas, happiness in the New Year, and unity on National Flag Day. Despite this, political repression and violence are increasing. This is further distancing Georgia from the European Union. This should not be the case.”

The ambassador’s remarks came in the wake of a violent attack on Giorgi Gakharia, the leader of the opposition party Gakharia – for Georgia.

Gakharia was assaulted last night at the Sheraton Hotel in Batumi. The opposition leader was hospitalized with a fractured nasal bone and a concussion but has since been discharged.

In a separate incident at the same location, a confrontation erupted involving Zviad Koridze, a representative of the non-governmental sector. Koridze alleged that he was confronted by Dimitri Samkharadze, a member of the ruling Georgian Dream party, along with his associates.