Opposition leader condemns Gov’t actions as protests continue across Georgia

Zurab Japaridze, leader of the Coalition for Change, on Thursday expressed gratitude to those protesting on Rustaveli Avenue against the Government’s decision to halt the EU integration until 2028, calling it a powerful stand for freedom.

He described the protests, now in their seventh consecutive day, as a widespread movement and emphasized “apart from Russia and its allies”, no one recognized the results of the October 26 general elections.

He condemned the authorities’ actions, alleging that hundreds of protesters had been arrested, many suffering injuries after their detention, which he described as torture.

Japaridze also accused the government of escalating its tactics, including raiding opposition party offices and seizing various items such as tents and gas masks. He dismissed footage showing Molotov cocktails being confiscated by the Ministry of Internal Affairs as a staged attempt to intimidate the public.

Japaridze also addressed the recent incidents at the Courtyard Marriott, where several opposition figures were arrested on Wednesday. He accused the Georgian Dream party of orchestrating provocations by sending disguised police officers to instigate violence.

He warned that such incidents would likely continue, urging people to be prepared for further government actions. He also noted that a number of public officials and figures from the art community had resigned or gone on strike in protest.