Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze has announced the postponement of the city’s New Year Tree lighting ceremony, blaming what he described as “radical opposition” for the delay. The mayor’s decision comes amid ongoing protests in front of the Georgian Parliament, where opposition groups have staged demonstrations, leading to disruptions.
Mayor Accuses Opposition of Provocation
In a statement, Kaladze said that the festive event, which traditionally marks the start of the holiday season in Tbilisi, would only take place once the opposition stops obstructing the area in front of Parliament. “We decided to postpone the New Year Tree lighting and celebration. The festive event will be held when the radical opposition ceases obstructing the children’s area in front of parliament,” Kaladze said, clearly frustrated by the situation.
The mayor went on to accuse opposition protesters of creating a dangerous atmosphere by occupying the space designated for families and children. He criticized them for “organizing provocations, aggression, and throwing bottles towards the tree,” a statement that reflects the rising tensions between the local government and protest groups.
Calls for Peace and Family Safety
Kaladze urged families planning to visit Rustaveli Avenue for the tree lighting to reconsider. He advised citizens, especially those with children, to stay home in light of the ongoing unrest. His comments underline the mayor’s priority to ensure safety and maintain public order during the holiday season.
This move comes amid growing political unrest in Georgia, with opposition groups accusing the government of authoritarianism. The protests, which have at times escalated into violence, have created a backdrop of division within the country. Kaladze’s postponement of the lighting ceremony is seen as a reflection of the increasingly polarized political climate.
