Residents of Shukruti have ended their hunger strike, but their protest persists as they seek to achieve their goals. They stated that the demonstration will continue until their demands are met.
“After seven months and on the 43rd day of our hunger strike, a representative of the state finally appeared and engaged in discussions. A meeting took place between the company, the state representative, and the affected residents. We agreed on the formation of a commission that will ultimately lead to a fair contract. Today, those who were on hunger strike will go to the clinic to undergo a rehabilitation course,” said one of the protest participants.
The protesters also expressed that the attitude of the company, Georgian Manganese, towards them has significantly changed.
“Starting today, no one will continue to hunger strike; however, the protest will remain unchanged until we have documented guarantees that our demands will be thoroughly addressed and fulfilled,” added another participant.
The residents of Shukruti relocated to Tbilisi on September 11 to continue their protest.
The protesters claim that mining activities in the area have caused extensive environmental damage, leading to the destruction of homes and infrastructure. According to the residents, Georgian Manganese has failed to offer adequate compensation for the damages, with only a portion of the population receiving what they describe as an “insufficient and meager” settlement.
