Mass protests in Tbilisi demand new elections and release of prisoners

Thousands gathered in Tbilisi on Monday, protesting against the government's recent policies and demanding new elections.

Protesters are also calling for the release of prisoners arrested during the escalation of demonstrations at the end of 2024. The rallies were sparked by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze's decision in November to pause Georgia’s EU integration process.

Opposition leaders accuse the ruling Georgian Dream party of suppressing democratic freedoms, drawing comparisons to Russia’s authoritarianism. They urge Western allies to support Georgia’s democratic fight.