Opposition Protesters Reclaim Space Near TSU After Brief Confrontation
Tensions escalated in Tbilisi as opposition protesters, after briefly being pushed back by law enforcement, have returned to the territory of Tbilisi State University (TSU) to continue their protest. The rally, led by figures from the Coalition for Change, saw demonstrators march from Melikishvili Avenue back to Chavchavadze Avenue, where the protest continues as of the evening of November 19, 2024.
Elene Khoshtaria, a prominent leader of the Coalition for Change, confirmed that the protest would carry on through the night, signaling that the opposition’s push for political change remains unwavering. Despite attempts by the police to contain the protesters earlier in the day, including blocking their path towards the TSU area, law enforcement eventually withdrew, allowing the rally to resume.
Police Intervene, Arrest 16 During Morning Operations
The protest began early in the morning with a tense standoff between law enforcement officers and rally participants. Police had initially moved in to prevent the crowd from advancing towards Chavchavadze Avenue. However, after a brief period of confrontation, they chose to pull back, enabling the demonstrators to reclaim the space outside TSU.
As the protest intensified, the Ministry of Internal Affairs took action, arresting a total of 16 individuals following overnight camping rallies on both Melikishvili and Chavchavadze avenues. These arrests marked a significant moment in the ongoing political struggle, with many of the detained participants expected to face charges related to public disorder.
Protesters Stand Firm, Demand Change
The protesters, largely made up of opposition supporters, are voicing their displeasure with the government’s handling of political affairs. Their demands include greater transparency, democratic reforms, and the resignation of key government officials.
The presence of law enforcement near key protest zones in Tbilisi has intensified as the demonstration continues into the night. Despite the arrests and police presence, the opposition leaders, including Khoshtaria, are resolute in their plans to maintain the momentum of the protest.
This ongoing protest is the latest chapter in a series of demonstrations across the Georgian capital, as political tensions rise. The return of the rally participants to the heart of the protest zone near TSU highlights the significant role that Georgia’s educational institutions are playing in the country’s broader political discourse.
