Tensions rise in Tbilisi as protesters attempt to block road outside Parliament

Authorities in Georgia have detained 16 demonstrators following an attempt to block a major thoroughfare outside the Parliament building in central Tbilisi, amid an ongoing wave of anti-government protests.

The incident took place on September 2, as a small group of protesters gathered outside the legislature while a parliamentary commission convened to present a report on alleged crimes committed during the presidency of former Georgian leader Mikheil Saakashvili, Caliber.Az reports.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, police began detaining demonstrators after they attempted to obstruct traffic on Rustaveli Avenue, a key road adjacent to the Parliament. The Ministry emphasized that multiple warnings were issued prior to the arrests.

“Despite repeated calls from Ministry of Internal Affairs officers not to obstruct traffic, the protesters failed to comply with the lawful demands of the police. Based on the above, the police detained 16 individuals in accordance with the Code of Administrative Offenses,” the statement read.

Officials reiterated their call for demonstrators to conduct their actions within the bounds of the law, specifically in areas designated for public assembly.

The arrests come amid heightened political tensions in Georgia, as opposition groups and civil society activists continue to voice concerns over alleged democratic backsliding and government overreach. Protests in recent months have been fueled by controversial legislation, as well as broader grievances related to transparency, civil liberties, and foreign influence.

By Vafa Guliyeva