Georgian activists and opposition hold protests against elections and Russian infiltration
A large-scale protest took place in Tbilisi under the slogan 'No to Russian Elections,' organized by opposition forces, civil organizations, and activists expressing their dissatisfaction with the ruling party 'Georgian Dream''s plans to participate in upcoming local elections.
The rally, which gathered outside the parliament building, aimed to voice concerns about the country’s political direction.
Protesters demanded the immediate release of activists detained during pro-European rallies and opposition politicians opposing the current government.
Their main goal was to demonstrate opposition to the participation of government opponents in the elections, which they believe are part of a Russian special operation designed to destabilize Georgia.
Levon Tsutskirilidze, leader of the 'Freedom Square' movement, emphasized that the scenario and outcome of these elections are predetermined, aimed at maintaining what he considers the destructive regime of Ivanishvili, allegedly under Russian influence.
In late June, eight opposition parties in Georgia jointly declared a boycott of the local elections scheduled for October, advocating for the complete dismantling of what they termed the 'Russian regime,' defending Georgia’s sovereignty, and establishing a democratic government modeled after European standards, with aspirations to join the EU and NATO.
They argued that participating in the current electoral process would only legitimize the unlawful regime of 'Georgian Dream.' The European Union sent Georgia an official letter in July demanding the restoration of the rule of law and a review of harsh sentences imposed on opposition members by August 31, warning that otherwise, the EU might suspend visa-free travel for Georgian citizens.
At the same time, several European foreign ministers, including Kaja Kallas, publicly criticized Georgia’s anti-democratic actions, condemning the authorities’ attempt to undermine fundamental rights and freedoms, and accusing them of trying to establish an authoritarian regime.