"Thousands took to the streets following calls by opposition parties for large protests against the ruling Georgian Dream party as ballots were being cast for local elections on October 4. Their aim was to revitalize daily demonstrations that began last year following alleged violations in parliamentary elections and a subsequent government decision to halt talks on joining the European Union. Those protests have largely fizzled out in recent months."
"As protesters tried to break through the palace fences, Georgia's Interior Ministry declared that the rally had "exceeded the norms set by law." Police have responded by deploying water cannons and pepper spray. According to witnesses, they have also used tear gas to push back protesters. Video coverage by RFE/RL's Georgian Service showed both police officers and protesters were engaging in physical confrontations, with demonstrators throwing unidentified objects."
Thousands of Georgians gathered after opposition calls as ballots were cast for local elections on October 4. Protesters sought to revive demonstrations that began last year after alleged parliamentary vote violations and a halt to EU accession talks, with some organizers saying the aim was the "peaceful overthrow of the government." Crowds moved toward the presidential palace around 7 p.m., attempting to break through fences, and the Interior Ministry declared the rally had exceeded legal norms. Police deployed water cannons and pepper spray and witnesses reported tear gas and injuries among officers and protesters; barricades formed near the palace and large crowds assembled on Rustaveli Avenue.
Read at RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty
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