Georgian Protesters Condemn Election Results, Oppose Government's Pro-Kremlin Policies

Around 20,000 people gathered in the Georgian capital, rallying against what they called electoral fraud in the recent parliamentary elections held on Saturday. The opposition, alongside citizens from Tbilisi, demanded fresh elections, insisting they be conducted independently from Georgia's current election commission. Leaders of the opposition also announced their refusal to participate in the new parliament, stating it was compromised due to alleged election manipulation.

For the new Georgian parliament to be operational, at least 100 out of 150 members must be present; however, Georgian Dream, the party that won the election, holds only 89 seats. While the ruling party is positioned to form a government, it can only do so after the parliament is officially constituted.

Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili stated she had discussed the situation with leaders from six European countries, updating them on developments within the country. Despite peaceful proceedings, Russian media outlets reported unverified claims of Ukrainian snipers allegedly present at the rally to incite chaos and unrest.

Protesters displayed banners critical of the Georgian Dream government, which has held power for 12 years. Many took issue with its perceived pro-Kremlin stance, which they argue is distancing Georgia from the EU. The parliament building was illuminated with slogans in both Georgian and English, reading, "Property of the people" and "We will return again."