Demonstrators outside the Parliament of Georgia demanded the release of political prisoners.
The protest demanding the release of prisoners of conscience and a return to a pro-European political course took place on Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi for the 596th consecutive evening.
As reported by "Caucasian Knot", on July 15, the action on Rustaveli Avenue took place for the 595th time, with participants demanding a change in political course and the release of political prisoners.
Supporters of Georgia's Eurointegration gathered today in front of the Parliament building for the 596th consecutive evening, demanding a return to the Euro-Atlantic course, the release of political prisoners, and the repeal of repressive laws, Publika reports.
Activists with flags of Georgia and the European Union stood at the edge of the sidewalk, close to the roadway of Rustaveli Avenue. Some demonstrators also had flags of Ukraine and the USA. Judging by video recordings published on Facebook* by Tamar Bartaia and Radio Tbilisi, at least 80-100 people participated in the gathering.
Participants held placards reading “The system must be destroyed” and “I stand on the sidewalk and will speak out against corruption,” “Corruption kills,” “Zviad Tsetskhladze - political prisoner,” and “Women in the prisons of Ivanishvili,” - the last placard was dedicated to Elene Khoshtaria, according to photos published by photographer Giorgi Mosiashvili (Mo Se) and Netgazeti on Facebook*.
Leader of “Droa” Elene Khoshtaria in her letter from prison stated that she would not deny the accusations of insulting Bidzina Ivanishvili if anyone proves it.
“I want to state in advance that if you find video, audio, or any other recording in which I use offensive expressions towards Bidzina Ivanishvili, or work on imposing sanctions against him, or expose his connections with Russia and his propensity for violence, I confirm that it is me,” Khoshtaria's words are quoted by the Pirveli channel.
Protest participants in Georgia have been demanding new parliamentary elections and the release of political prisoners since November 28, 2024. Law enforcement has conducted harsh dispersals of protests, using tear gas and water cannons, and detaining protesters. During the protests, thousands of people have faced administrative prosecution. “Caucasian Knot” has prepared a report “Main points on the persecution of protest participants in Georgia.”