Tbilisi protests: injured demonstrator’s condition improves as rallies enter 20th day

The condition of 21-year-old Aleksi Tirkia, who was injured during a pro-European rally in Tbilisi, has improved, doctors say. He has been moved from the intensive care unit to a regular ward at the Ingorokva Clinic.

Kakhaber Chelidze, Clinical Director of the Ingorokva Clinic, told the media “there is a sharp improvement in all parameters, including vision… All parameters are stable, although his condition remains noteworthy. At this stage, his stay in intensive care is no longer necessary… All the patient’s behaviour and actions are conscious.”

Tirkia’s rehabilitation has begun, but his eye condition remains serious. His uncle, Ioseb Chanadir, told journalists.

“Today, in the afternoon, he was transferred to the ward. His rehabilitation has begun, although his eye condition is still serious. His parents come in to see him, he eats, communicates, and he has difficulty walking. He has minor memory lapses – they are telling us that it is a matter of time. It was expected after such an injury.”

Tirkia was allegedly struck by a so-called gas capsule during the dispersal of a protest rally in Tbilisi on 3 December. The Special Investigation Service is investigating the incident to establish the exact cause of his injuries.

The protests, which began on 28 November, erupted after the Georgian Dream government decided not to open negotiations on EU membership or accept EU budget grants until the end of 2028. While the government says it still aims for EU accession by 2030, protesters accuse it of stalling the European integration process and are demanding fresh parliamentary elections.

Today marks the 20th day of protests. Over 400 demonstrators have been detained, including more than 30 under criminal law. Police have been accused of abusing protesters and journalists, while the Ministry of Internal Affairs says its officers have also been injured.