Opposition Leader Japaridze says consultations with opposition to begin on Monday amid ongoing protests

Zurab Japaridze, one of the leaders of the opposition Coalition for Change, on Friday said during an ongoing protest rally on Rustaveli Avenue in central Tbilisi that he will begin consultations with opposition forces starting Monday.

“Clearly, the protest is extremely important, just as important as it was before my arrest. At this moment, the protest is a public demonstration that the citizens of this country do not accept the dictatorship that has taken hold here. Continuing the protest is a matter of principle; it is the very minimum that must be done,” Japaridze said.

He added that ruling party founder Bidzina Ivanishvili fears public protest because he is aware of the power of the Georgian people.

“Ivanishvili is afraid of the people because he knows very well that the strength of the Georgian people will ultimately prevail,” he stated.

Commenting on recent legislation and restrictions, Japaridze said the effectiveness of laws depends on how far authorities are able to enforce them.

“If we are pushed off the streets to the sidewalks, the next step will inevitably be social media. From the street to the sidewalk, from the sidewalk to home and from home to speaking only on social networks - this will lead to far greater censorship of social media than we already see. People have already been arrested over social media posts,” he said.

Japaridze stressed that democratic forces must demonstrate unity and present a credible alternative to the current Government.

“If there is any chance for democratic forces to exist on this side, all the necessary signs must be present. How many years can we talk about coordination? Much more is needed. People must feel that there is an alternative force here - one that is truly united and genuinely fighting. There must be agreement on a joint list and a common strategy of struggle,” he said.

Japaridze noted that he would refrain from outlining specific steps for now but confirmed that he plans to begin meetings with opposition representatives next week.

“I will not speak about specific steps yet. I have meetings planned starting Monday. I will speak with the opposition. Consultations begin on Monday,” he said.