Tbilisi in turmoil: PM blames NGOs, opposition for escalating protests

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has identified opposition political forces and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) as the organizers of recent protests in Tbilisi. 

Speaking at a briefing, Kobakhidze claimed these groups played a key role in escalating unrest in the Georgian capital, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

“It will certainly not be possible to escape responsibility for the events that have been developing these days from those politicians who organized this violence but who themselves were hiding in their offices,” Kobakhidze stated. 

He also criticized “leaders of rich NGOs” who, according to him, supported violent actions while remaining behind the scenes.

The Prime Minister accused NGOs of supplying demonstrators with tear gas protective goggles, pyrotechnics, and other equipment, suggesting their active involvement in fueling the protests.

Calls for dialogue and criticism from abroad

The Georgian government has been urged to address the demands of protesters and stabilize the situation. Stephen Doughty, the UK’s Deputy Foreign Minister, emphasized the importance of listening to public concerns.

“We call on the Georgian authorities to listen, defuse the situation, and not to go further down the pernicious path of abandoning European values,” Doughty stated. He warned that Georgia’s international reputation and relationships with allies could suffer if democratic norms and freedoms continue to be undermined.

The OSCE also condemned the violence against protesters and journalists, describing it as a “serious violation of the right to freedom of assembly.”

Doughty further highlighted the public's dissatisfaction with the ruling Georgian Dream party’s decision to suspend negotiations on joining the European Union until 2028. “The people of Georgia are making it clear that they do not agree with the Georgian Dream's decision to suspend the country's further movement towards a European future, which directly contradicts the Georgian constitution,” he added.

Protests sparked by leadership's decision

The protests began on November 28 after the government’s announcement to delay EU accession talks, a move that shocked many and triggered widespread outrage. Demonstrators gathered near the Georgian parliament to voice their frustration, with President Salome Zourabichvili also expressing discontent over the government’s pivot away from European integration.

Initially peaceful, the protests escalated as police deployed water cannons and rubber bullets to disperse crowds. Over a four-day period, 224 protesters were arrested, with three facing criminal investigations. The clashes left more than 40 people hospitalized, including protesters and police officers, underscoring the growing tension between the Georgian authorities and citizens advocating for stronger ties with the EU.​

By Tamilla Hasanova