15 Nov 2024 | 12:17 PM UTC
Georgia: Election-related demonstrations to likely persist in Tbilisi and Batumi through at least mid-November /update 5
Demonstrations likely to continue in Batumi and Tbilisi, Georgia, through at least mid-November. Heightened security, disruptions likely.
Heightened security and demonstrations will likely persist in Tbilisi through at least mid-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. The next organized protest in central Tbilisi is planned for Nov. 15 at Republic's Square, from 17:00. In previous occasions, tens of thousands of demonstrators attended events in the capital, particularly during the demonstrations of Nov. 9 and Nov. 10.
In Batumi, students' unions continue to periodically organize demonstrations in the area of the Shota Rustaveli State University and at Europe Square. The next organized event will take place at the Shota Rustaveli State University, from 18:00 on Nov. 15.
Although demonstrations in other parts of Georgia have waned, small unannounced gatherings remain possible elsewhere across the country. In Tbilisi, other likely locations for protests include Heroes' Square and Dzmebi Zubalashvilebi Street. Further large-scale events are likely in coming days in both cities.
Authorities will almost certainly deploy increased security to monitor gatherings and impose traffic restrictions near affected areas. Localized road travel and transport disruptions are likely 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. Although protests have become smaller than they were in the days immediately following the vote, large demonstrations remain possible in Tbilisi, particularly following election-related developments.
