Tens of Thousands Protest in Tbilisi Amidst Georgian Election Concerns
Tbilisi, Georgia – October 4, 2025 – Tens of thousands of Georgians took to the streets of Tbilisi in recent weeks to protest against the ruling government ahead of local elections, fueled by concerns over political repression and the state of the nation’s democracy. The demonstrations come as imprisoned former President Mikhail Saakashvili urged his supporters to view the elections as a critical juncture for the country.
The protests reflect a growing discontent with the current government, which has been accused by human rights organizations of suppressing dissent and limiting freedoms of expression and assembly. The upcoming local elections are being held under a cloud of controversy, with Amnesty International stating they will occur in a climate of “political oppression.” The situation raises questions about the future of democratic processes in Georgia and the potential for further political instability.
Prime Minister Kobachidse responded to the demonstrations with a stern warning,threatening a forceful police response to any riots during the election period. He leveled accusations of “radicality” against the opposition supporters, confidently asserting that “your revolutionary attempts will definately fail.”
The protest movement has experienced a recent decline in public visibility, coinciding with a crackdown on opposition figures, journalists, and activists. Approximately 60 individuals were reportedly detained last year, according to human rights groups.The legal proceedings against opposition leaders and civil society representatives underscore the increasing restrictions on fundamental rights within Georgia.
Saakashvili, currently imprisoned, has positioned the elections as a final prospect to safeguard Georgian democracy, rallying his base to participate and challenge the government’s authority. The outcome of the local elections will likely determine the trajectory of political opposition and the extent of democratic freedoms in the country moving forward.
