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Pro-EU protests erupt in Georgia after opposition leader's arrest, PM calls it 'preventive' | N18G

On December 3, Nika Gvaramia, leader of one of Georgia's four main opposition parties, was detained by police in Tbilisi after being beaten unconscious. The incident occurred amid ongoing protests against the government's decision to suspend EU membership talks. Gvaramia, a former justice minister and ally of ex-President Mikheil Saakashvili, was captured on video being carried by police after being knocked unconscious. The protests, which have been ongoing for seven nights, are fueled by opposition criticism of the government's pro-Russian stance and its abandonment of the West. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze defended the police's actions, claiming they were necessary to prevent a revolution. However, the opposition and human rights advocates have accused the government of turning authoritarian, with allegations of police brutality and torture against detained protesters. The crisis highlights deepening political divisions in the country, as many view the government’s actions as a step away from European integration.

first published: Dec 5, 2024 03:17 pm