Mon Feb 03 09:11:52 UTC 2025: ## Georgian Police Crack Down on Pro-Democracy Protests, Arresting Opposition Leaders

**Tbilisi, Georgia** – A renewed wave of anti-government protests in Tbilisi resulted in the arrest of several opposition figures, including prominent leaders Nika Melia and Gigi Ugulava, late Sunday. Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets, blocking roads and protesting alleged voter fraud in the October 2024 elections, authoritarian laws enacted by the ruling Georgian Dream party, and what they perceive as the government’s pro-Russian leanings and stalling of EU accession talks.

The arrests marked a significant escalation of the ongoing protests, which began in November and had seen a period of relative quiet. Footage from independent news outlets showed police using force against protesters, leading to accusations of brutality. Nika Melia, leader of the Akhali party, was arrested on an administrative charge but later released. Former Tbilisi mayor Gigi Ugulava was also detained.

Former Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia accused Bidzina Ivanishvili, the founder of the Georgian Dream party, of orchestrating the violent crackdown. International condemnation was swift, with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas calling the actions “unacceptable” and stating that Georgia was failing to meet the expectations of a candidate country. The EU also recently suspended visa-free travel for Georgian diplomats and officials due to concerns about repressive laws and the government’s handling of protests.

The protests highlight deep divisions within Georgia, with opposition groups alleging that the ruling party is undermining democratic institutions and hindering the country’s progress towards European integration. The postponement of EU accession talks until 2028 has further fueled public anger. The situation remains tense, with protests continuing outside the parliament building.

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