Tens of thousands march against Georgia’s government as local election snubbed by opposition held

TBILISI, Georgia — Protests in Georgia turned violent on Saturday as police used water cannons and pepper spray to push back demonstrators attempting to storm the presidential palace. The municipal election, which was boycotted by major opposition groups, has sparked outrage over the government’s crackdown on dissent.

Thousands gathered in Tbilisi to denounce the ruling party, Georgian Dream, for its authoritarian tactics. Protesters fear the government is distancing Georgia from its democratic values and aligning with Russia.

Carrying Georgian flags and calling for EU membership, demonstrators are pushing back against the government’s decision to halt talks with the bloc. This move has triggered ongoing protests and a harsh response from authorities.

Despite the crackdown on dissent through restrictive laws and mass arrests, protesters remain defiant. Critics compare the government’s actions to those of Russia, where dissent is heavily suppressed by President Putin.

One protester, Sophio Asatiani, emphasized the fight for independence and rejection of Soviet-era control from Moscow. Organizers, led by opera singer Paata Burchuladze, are urging the people to reclaim power from a government that has silenced opposition voices and restricted media freedom.

The demonstration took a violent turn as some protesters attempted to breach the presidential palace, only to be met with force by riot police.