Georgian opposition plans rally outside parliament

Georgia’s opposition coalition, the Opposition Alliance, says it will proceed with plans to stage a rally outside the parliament building in Tbilisi despite a ban imposed by City Hall.

One of the alliance’s leaders, Nika Gvaramia, announced that supporters would gather at 7:00 p.m. on May 26 near the first university building before marching to Rustaveli Avenue, the capital’s main political thoroughfare, Caliber.Az reports via Georgian media.

“Before that, we will try to bring in the equipment, set up the stage, and hold a full-scale rally, which is our right,” Gvaramia said.

He added that the opposition would not comply with what he described as unlawful restrictions imposed by the authorities.

“We do not intend to comply with decisions that contradict the law and Georgia’s national interests,” he said. “The protest will be peaceful and based on constitutional rights.”

Gvaramia also urged Georgian authorities to avoid escalation during the demonstration, noting that the situation was attracting international attention.

“I urge the authorities to refrain from any incidents — the process is being watched not only in Georgia but also beyond its borders,” he said.

By Sabina Mammadli