Pro-EU protests reignited in Georgia on Friday after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze claimed victory over opposition demonstrators amid a growing political crisis. The protests, sparked by accusations of electoral fraud and the government’s refusal to pursue EU talks until 2028, have gripped Tbilisi since the disputed October 26 election.
Despite police using tear gas and water cannons against protesters, thousands remained on the streets, blocking roads outside the parliament for the ninth consecutive night. Though the crowd was smaller, demonstrators, like 18-year-old medical student Nana, insisted they would not give up their fight for freedom.
Kobakhidze praised his security forces for successfully quelling the protests, labeling the movement “liberal fascism” and vowing to “neutralize” the opposition. He also reiterated threats to continue targeting activists and political opponents.
Opposition leaders, such as Mamuka Khazaradze from the Lelo party, believe the government is losing its grip. He accused the ruling Georgian Dream party of resorting to arrests and repression as public discontent grows. Meanwhile, fresh arrests were made, with several opposition figures detained and some facing prison sentences.
The crisis is expected to intensify as the government plans to elect a loyalist to replace pro-Western President Salome Zurabishvili. Critics of Georgian Dream, including several diplomats who have resigned, argue that the government’s actions threaten the country’s EU ambitions.
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