Thousands have gathered for a third night of protests in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, to protest the election results and the ruling government’s decision to postpone the country’s approximation to the EU.
Protesters, in particular angered by the violence used by special forces and riot police to disperse the crowds the past two nights, have taken advantage of the weekend to come to the capital from the regions.
Those unable to come to Tbilisi are protesting in Batumi, Poti, Kutaisi, Khashuri and elsewhere.
On Rustaveli Avenue, the riot police and water cannons are on standby in Freedom Square and near the parliament building.
The thousands of rally-goers, some pounding on the metal barriers and intermittently throwing fireworks into the courtyard of the unlit parliament building, are unafraid and standing firm.