EU talks suspension sparks violence in Tbilisi with 15 hospitalised

Fifteen individuals, including protesters, media representatives, and a police officer, were hospitalized following violent clashes at a rally in Tbilisi near the Georgian Parliament building, according to Georgia’s Ministry of Health. 

The protest, held on December 3, saw 11 protesters, three journalists, and one police officer injured, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

While some remain under medical supervision, others were discharged after receiving first aid.

The Interior Ministry reported that 22 people were arrested during the protest on administrative charges. The detainees were taken to various detention centres and are set to face trial.

The rally was part of ongoing protests that began in late November 2024, following the government’s announcement to suspend European Union membership talks until 2028. The decision, which many saw as a significant step back from European integration, provoked widespread public outcry. Demonstrators, including opposition figures and citizens, gathered near the parliament, voicing their frustration with the government’s move.

President Salome Zourabichvili has been vocal in her opposition, aligning herself with the protesters. “Georgia’s future lies with Europe, and this government’s decision goes against the will of the people,” she said previously.

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze accused opposition leaders, journalists, and President Zourabichvili of orchestrating the protests, claiming it was an attempt to stage another “Maidan” in Georgia. This marks a continuation of political tension following the disputed parliamentary elections held on October 26.

According to the Central Election Commission (CEC), the ruling Georgian Dream party secured 53.93% of the vote, translating to 89 seats in the 150-member legislature. Opposition parties, including the Coalition for Change (11.03%, 19 seats), Unity - National Movement (10.17%, 16 seats), Strong Georgia (8.81%, 14 seats), and Gakharia for Georgia (7.78%, 12 seats), have all rejected the results, as has President Zourabichvili.

The opposition and Zourabichvili filed a joint lawsuit with the Constitutional Court to annul the election results, citing voter disenfranchisement due to a lack of polling stations abroad and concerns over ballot secrecy. However, the court dismissed their claims, affirming the election outcome as valid. The ruling is final and cannot be appealed.

The US has expressed dissatisfaction with Georgia’s current political trajectory. State Department Press Secretary Matthew Miller pointed to sanctions, visa restrictions, the freezing of $95 million in aid, and a pause in the US-Georgia strategic partnership as measures to convey American disapproval.

As tensions escalate, Georgia’s political and social future remains uncertain, with protests symbolizing the deep divisions over the country’s direction, both domestically and internationally.

By Tamilla Hasanova