The Ministry of the Interior said that 32 of its employees were injured and 43 people were detained by law enforcement authorities for disobeying lawful police orders and petty hooliganism.
Thousands of people demonstrated in Tbilisi and other Georgian cities after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced on Thursday that Georgia would abandon accession talks with the EU by the end of 2028.
On Thursday night and Friday morning, police fired rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannons against protesters outside the parliament building in Tbilisi.
Khoshtariya suffered a broken arm and Malashiya suffered a broken nose, the opposition said.
When announcing the suspension of the accession talks, Kobahidze also announced that Georgia is refusing any EU budget grants. He pointed out that the end of 2028 is the deadline by which Tbilisi will be sufficiently prepared from an economic point of view to start accession negotiations with the EU with the aim of joining it in 2030.
Meanwhile, the European Parliament (EP) on Thursday, with 444 votes in favor, 72 against, and 82 abstentions, adopted a resolution condemning the Georgian parliamentary elections held on October 26, as they were neither free nor fair. The parliamentary elections were largely seen as an indicator of Georgians’ desire to join the EU.
According to the official results, the ”Georgian Dream” won the parliamentary elections in Georgia, but the opposition parties and President Salome Zurabishvili do not recognize the election results, considering them to be fake. Opposition MPs are boycotting the sittings of the new parliament.
How does the opposition in Georgia plan to respond to the alleged unfairness of the recent parliamentary elections?
Interview with dr.Nino Chkheidze, Political Analyst on the Recent Political turmoil in Georgia
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. chkheidze. To start, could you provide us with an overview of the recent events in Georgia following Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s declaration regarding the suspension of EU accession talks?
Dr.Nino Chkheidze: Thank you for having me. The situation in Georgia has escalated significantly since the Prime Minister declared that the country would abandon its EU accession talks by 2028. This announcement led to widespread protests in Tbilisi and across other cities, where thousands took to the streets to express their discontent. The anger is compounded by the recent parliamentary elections on October 26, which the European Parliament condemned as neither free nor fair. The ruling party, “Georgian Dream,” won, but their victory is being contested by opposition leaders and citizens alike who feel marginalized.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like a critical moment for Georgia. The Ministry of the Interior reported injuries among law enforcement and detentions for minor offenses.What does this level of confrontation signify in the broader context of civic unrest in Georgia?
Dr. Nino Chkheidze: Yes, the confrontations resulted in injuries to 32 police officers and arrests of 43 individuals, highlighting the volatility of the situation. This level of unrest signifies deep-seated frustrations among georgians regarding governance and their aspiration for European integration. The government’s tactics, employing rubber bullets and tear gas against peaceful demonstrators, amplify the tension and can lead to further escalation of protests. It reflects a widening chasm between the authorities and the population, who are yearning for democratic processes and alignment with European values.
Time.news Editor: Prime Minister Kobakhidze also mentioned that Georgia would refuse EU budget grants until 2028.What are the implications of this decision for Georgia’s economy and its relationship with the EU?
Dr. Nino Chkheidze: Refusing EU budget grants is a bold statement that can have severe implications for Georgia’s economic stability and developmental prospects. By doing so, the government is effectively signaling a departure from the economic reforms tied to EU integration, which could hinder foreign investment and economic growth. Moreover,it risks alienating the EU,which has been a key partner in providing financial assistance and promoting reforms. This decision could lead Georgia away from much-needed support, and ultimately affect its economic preparedness for future EU negotiations, possibly delaying its ambitions to join the Union.
Time.news Editor: What can you tell us about the opposition’s response to the situation, especially regarding the recent parliamentary elections?
Dr. Nino Chkheidze: The opposition has taken a firm stand against the results of the elections, which they believe were manipulated. Notably, they have chosen to boycott sessions of the new parliament, reflecting their rejection of what they deem an illegitimate process. This move could further polarize the political landscape in Georgia, hindering any potential dialogue between the ruling party and opposition factions. If the opposition can unite and maintain public pressure, it may hold the government accountable for its actions and push for democratic norms.
Time.news Editor: Given the current unrest and political tensions,what practical advice would you give to ordinary citizens in Georgia who want to voice their concerns?
Dr. Nino Chkheidze: My advice to the citizens of Georgia is to stay informed and engaged. Peaceful protest is a vital democratic right, but it is essential to prioritize safety during such volatile situations. Forming coalitions with civic groups can amplify their voices and help them remain organized. Additionally, utilizing social media responsibly can ensure their message reaches a broader audience and garners support both locally and internationally. Lastly, engaging in discussions and advocating for dialogue can contribute to a more conducive atmosphere for democratic reform.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Chkheidze, for your insights into these pressing issues. It’s clear that Georgia is at a crossroads, and the developments will be closely watched both within the country and by the international community.
Dr. nino Chkheidze: Thank you for having me. I hope for a peaceful resolution and a stronger commitment to democracy in Georgia.