Prominent Georgian pianist Khatia Buniatishvili has spoken out against the detention of political prisoners in Georgia, calling on authorities to release them immediately. She emphasized that such imprisonments would not silence the free-thinking spirit of the people.
“Release the prisoners of conscience—innocent, peaceful, and free individuals,” Buniatishvili wrote. She stressed that no government could suppress the deep-rooted desire for freedom that defines Georgians. “By detaining them, you are taking away their right to breathe freely, to embrace loved ones, to argue, to live on their terms—rights that belong to every citizen and are the government’s duty to protect.”
Buniatishvili also warned authorities of the impact of their actions in the long term. “The burden of these lost days, months, and years will rest on your shoulders. It will weigh far heavier than you realize.” She wrote. “For Georgians, oppression has always been temporary. And this time, ‘temporary’ will be even shorter than before.”
Georgians have been protesting for 105 consecutive days, demanding new, legitimate elections and the release of over 50 individuals who were arrested during or with the demonstrations. The ruling party has intensified its measures, using economic pressure as a tool of repression, with protesters facing rising fines and authorities imposing GEL 5000 penalties for actions like blocking roads. Such fines are reported daily.
Despite the efforts on the government’s side to suppress the protests, Buniatishvili’s message resonates with the emotional beats of the movement and the protesters. “Let them smile beyond prison bars,” she said. “Only then can we smile too, whether inside or outside our homeland.”
