10 Nov 2021 | 09:41 AM UTC
Georgia: Opposition protests ongoing outside several government buildings in Tbilisi the morning of Nov. 10
Opposition protests ongoing in Tbilisi, Georgia, the morning of Nov. 10. Increased security, localized disruptions likely. Clashes possible.
Event
Opposition activists are protesting outside several government buildings in Tbilisi the morning of Nov. 10 to denounce the perceived treatment of imprisoned former president Mikheil Saakashvili and to call for new elections. Participants continue to arrive at rallies outside the State Security Service (SUS) on Vazha Pshavela Avenue, the Ministry of Justice on Gorgasali Street, the Ministry of Health on Akaki Tsereteli Avenue, and Tbilisi City Court on Luarsab Andronikashvili Street. Police have deployed heavily at each location, particularly Tbilisi City Court where Saakashvili is due to appear around 13:00. Scuffles and several arrests have been reported outside the SUS building.
A heavy police presence will likely remain in affected areas until after the gatherings have concluded. Clashes between security forces and protesters are possible. Transport and business disruptions are likely to persist in the coming hours.
Context
Saakashvili returned to Georgia from self-imposed exile Oct. 1 and was immediately arrested and jailed for abuse of power while he was in office. Saakashvili claims the charges against him are politically motivated and has since been on a hunger strike; his deteriorating condition prompted authorities to have him committed to a prison hospital Nov. 9. His imprisonment and subsequent hospitalization are exacerbating a political crisis between the ruling Georgian Dream party and the opposition United National Movement, which remains closely affiliated with Saakashvili. Further protests are likely over the coming days and may intensify should Saakashvili's condition worsen.
Advice
Avoid the protest sites as a precaution against unrest and to avoid disruption. Heed all official traffic and security advisories. If violence occurs nearby, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a nongovernment building. Plan for possible localized transport disruptions and allow additional time to reach nearby destinations through the afternoon of Nov. 10.
