Georgia PM: Protesters disrupt society, not authorities “50 people are mocking millions”

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has stated that participants in street protests are disrupting society rather than targeting the authorities.

“Society is very concerned that 50 people are mocking millions. When you gather in groups of 50, 100, or even 300, please remain on the sidewalk. This is the demand of society, and it is now reflected in the law,” Kobakhidze said, Caliber.Az reports, citing Georgian media.

The Prime Minister linked societal concern and dissatisfaction to proposed amendments to the Administrative Offences Code, which are currently under parliamentary consideration and would introduce arrest penalties instead of fines for blocking streets.

The Georgian Dream government, in power since 2012, has faced criticism for backsliding on democratic reforms and aligning closer to Russia, particularly after passing the controversial “foreign agents” law in May 2024. This law, requiring NGOs and media receiving over 20% foreign funding to register as “foreign agents,” sparked widespread protests and condemnation from the EU and U.S., who view it as undermining Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic integration.

Protests intensified in September-October 2025 amid Georgian Dream's authoritarian measures ahead of the October 26 parliamentary elections, boycotted by major opposition as fraudulent. On September 8, government supporters assaulted protesters and journalists outside Tbilisi Mayor's office, including women facing gendered violence like strip searches, despite a June pledge to end them. Demonstrations resumed on September 9 after attacks, with over 500 protesters beaten or tortured since inception.

On October 4, thousands rallied in Tbilisi during local elections (boycotted by opposition), waving EU flags and attempting to breach the presidential palace, met with water cannons, tear gas, and riot police; dozens were arrested. Georgian Dream claimed victory in all municipalities. On October 5, PM Irakli Kobakhidze vowed a "sweeping crackdown," accusing protesters of an "attempted overthrow" backed by the EU, and pledging to "neutralize foreign agents" while banning opposition activity.

By Khagan Isayev