Georgian authorities report over 400 arrests in ongoing protests against the Georgian Dream government, sparked by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s suspension of EU accession talks in late November.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs announced that 372 protesters face administrative charges, with 62 sentenced to prison and over 100 fined. Legal proceedings for others are ongoing.
The demonstrations have also resulted in injuries to over 150 police officers, including burns and fractures, some requiring surgery. Additionally, the unrest has seen approximately 60 thefts reported in businesses, ranging from stores to restaurants. Authorities are supporting new measures, including a ban on masks at demonstrations, to curb violence and maintain order.
Prime Minister Kobakhidze downplayed the protests, calling them “easing” and claiming they lack direction. He dismissed opposition claims of halted European integration and election fraud, stating that the opposition’s actions lack future prospects. Meanwhile, opposition leaders and President Salomé Zurabishvili insist the government has “kidnapped institutions” and are demanding new elections to resolve the ongoing political crisis.
Despite the turmoil, Parliament has scheduled presidential elections for December 14, set to conclude Zurabishvili’s term. However, the president has vowed not to leave office unless a repeat election is held, following allegations of fraud in the Georgian Dream party’s narrow victory.
