Tbilisi streets locked down as students lead major anti-government march

Protesters have fully blocked traffic on Tbilisi’s central Rustaveli Avenue and Freedom Square, effectively paralysing the city centre, Caliber.Az reports citing Georgian media.

The demonstration, described by its organisers as a “peaceful overthrow of power” and a “peaceful revolution of flags,” began with a student march.

The organising committee includes public figure Paata Burchuladze, “National Movement” member Irakli Nadiradze, former prosecutor Murtaz Zodelava, “Agmashenebeli Strategy” member Paata Manjgaladze, and Colonel Lasha Beridze.

Organisers say the main speeches are expected later in the evening, along with the presentation of a declaration outlining further actions.

The Georgian Interior Ministry urged participants to follow the law and comply with police instructions. “For every fact of law violation by the police, an appropriate legal response will follow,” the ministry said in a statement.

To maintain public order and safety, police units have been deployed at multiple locations across Tbilisi, including the city assembly building and areas near the protest stage.

Protesters from outside the capital have also joined the demonstration, in addition to Tbilisi residents.

By Tamilla Hasanova