19 Nov 2024 | 08:37 AM UTC
Georgia: Election-related demonstrations to likely persist in Tbilisi and Batumi through at least late November /update 6
Demonstrations likely to continue in Batumi and Tbilisi, Georgia, through at least late November. Heightened security, disruptions likely.
Heightened security and demonstrations will likely persist in Batumi and Tbilisi through at least late November following the nation's Oct. 26 parliamentary elections. Opposition parties and President Salome Zurabishvili allege the outcome to be invalid, accusing the Georgian Dream Party of ballot stuffing, voter intimidation, and other election violations. As of Nov. 19, security forces are dispersing protestors at the State University in Tbilisi and dismantling an area of tents that had blocked roads in recent days. Local media report scuffles between police and protestors, and multiple arrests. Opposition politicians have led large-scale city-center demonstrations, including on Nov. 9, 10, 15, and 17, and plan further events in coming days.
In Tbilisi, likely locations for protests include Republic Square, Heroes' Square, and Dzmebi Zubalashvilebi Street. In Batumi, students' unions continue to periodically organize demonstrations in the area of the Shota Rustaveli State University and Europe Square. Although demonstrations in other parts of Georgia have waned, unannounced gatherings remain possible across the country.
Authorities will likely deploy increased security to monitor gatherings and to impose traffic restrictions. Heightened security measures and congestion will likely cause localized road travel disruptions near protest sites. Violence is possible between law enforcement officers, demonstrators, and supporters of rival political parties.
Avoid all demonstrations as a standard precaution. Exercise caution around government and court buildings and political party offices. Monitor local media or check with trusted local sources for updates on possible demonstrations and associated disruptions, as events could take place with little to no warning. Immediately leave the area at the first signs of confrontation. Heed instructions from law enforcement officers.
Following the Oct. 26 vote, the country's electoral commission announced early Oct. 27 that the ruling Georgian Dream party had won 54 percent of the vote with 99 percent of precincts counted. The electoral commission ordered a partial recount of the vote before once again certifying the result and calling on President Zurabishvili to provide evidence of irregularities. As of Nov. 18, the President has proposed holding a repeat election.
