A leading opposition figure in Georgia, Nika Gvaramia, was violently detained by security agents in front of journalists on Wednesday. The arrest sparked widespread protests and a crackdown on opposition leaders, with at least nine people taken into custody.
Thousands of protesters have been demonstrating outside the Parliament building for the past week, opposing the government’s decision to delay Georgia’s EU membership process. The ruling party has claimed that “systematic violence” was being planned by opposition groups, but many Georgians fear their government is turning towards Russia instead.
Protesters wore protective gear and used tear gas-resistant masks to shield themselves from police forces. Confrontations broke out every night, with dozens of protesters beaten and hundreds detained. The arrests have fueled the already intense public fury against the government’s move.
Georgia’s Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has said that the government needs to take action against opposition groups due to this information. However, many Georgians are outraged at the treatment of opposition figures and fear their government is being influenced by Russia. The EU membership process remains a contentious issue, with the ruling party claiming it will benefit Georgia’s future, but opponents say it will compromise their country’s sovereignty.
As tensions rise, protesters have taken to the streets every night, demanding action from the government. With the opposition movement showing no signs of backing down, Georgia is facing its deepest crisis in years.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/04/world/europe/georgia-russia-protests-gvaramia.html