Wed Dec 04 16:40:52 UTC 2024: **Georgia Crackdown on Pro-EU Protests: Opposition Leader Detained, Offices Raided**
TBILISI, GEORGIA – Georgian authorities have launched a sweeping crackdown on anti-government protests sparked by the ruling Georgian Dream party’s suspension of EU accession talks. The escalating conflict saw the arrest of opposition leader Nika Gvaramia, the leader of the Coalition for Change party, and raids on the offices of several opposition parties, including the United National Movement (UNM) and Strong Georgia.
The arrests and raids followed six consecutive nights of large-scale demonstrations in Tbilisi, where thousands of protesters have clashed with police. Police have used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds, while some protesters responded by throwing fireworks and constructing barricades. At least 11 protesters, three journalists, and one police officer were hospitalized with injuries, and over 300 protesters have been detained since Thursday.
The government, led by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, has accused the opposition of orchestrating violent protests and vowed to hold those responsible accountable. Kobakhidze promised a crackdown on what he termed “radical” opposition forces. However, the opposition UNM accused the government of employing “all-out terror and repressions against opponents.” President Salome Zurabishvili, while pro-EU, criticized the government for allegedly restricting access to protective gear for protesters.
The public ombudsman has also condemned police brutality, alleging instances of torture against detained protesters. Despite the government’s actions, protesters, fueled by anger over the perceived betrayal of Georgia’s EU aspirations, vow to continue their demonstrations. Al Jazeera reports that the arrest of Gvaramia has not deterred protesters from planning further actions. The ongoing conflict highlights deep divisions within Georgian society over the country’s future and its relationship with the European Union.
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