Georgia: Political rallies possible in Tbilisi October 19-21

Event

Local reports indicate the main opposition party in Georgia, the United National Movement (UNM), has requested permission to organize political rallies between Friday, October 19 to Sunday, October 21 on Freedom Square and Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi in the lead-up to the Georgian Presidential Election, scheduled for Sunday, October 28. The US Embassy in Georgia also issued an alert on October 19 due to the potential for "impromptu or unannounced rallies" in central Tbilisi, including on Rustaveli Avenue, ahead of the elections. A heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions are anticipated in the vicinity of demonstrations.

Advice

Individuals in Tbilisi are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.