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President Zourabichvili Criticizes Interior Ministry's Protest Warning as 'Russian-Style Governance'
The Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) issued a strong warning on November 22 ahead of protests planned in Tbilisi on November 24. The Ministry cautioned organizers and participants against actions that could disrupt the first session of the 11th parliamentary convocation, warning of severe legal consequences for violations.
The statement specifically addressed opposition parties' plans to march from Republic Square to the Parliament building. It emphasized that blocking strategic or essential state facilities, including the Parliament, is a criminal offense under Article 222 of the Criminal Code, punishable by up to two years in prison for individuals and up to four years for group offenders. The Ministry cited a recent government resolution identifying the Parliament and Government Administration buildings as sites of strategic importance.
"Otherwise, the police will take all appropriate legal measures to prevent illegal activity," the MIA stated.
President Salome Zourabichvili sharply criticized the Ministry's announcement, arguing that such measures undermine citizens' constitutional right to assembly and protest. She labeled the warnings as indicative of "Russian-style governance" and accused the government of infringing on fundamental freedoms.
Gakharia Calls for Diplomatic Boycott of Parliament's Opening Session
Giorgi Gakharia, former Prime Minister and leader of the Gakharia-For Georgia party, urged the diplomatic corps in Georgia to boycott the first session of the 11th Parliament. At a press briefing, Gakharia specifically appealed to US and EU ambassadors, asking them not to attend the session as a stand against what he described as fraudulent election results.
Gakharia argued that participation would legitimize an election he claims was marred by systematic violations, including breaches of voter privacy, manipulation of election commissions, and misuse of citizens' personal data. He stated that resolving the ongoing political crisis requires a full, independent investigation into these alleged irregularities.
