Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze stated that, for the first time in a year, protesters described by the government as “radicals” were unable to block Rustaveli Avenue, suggesting that the recently enacted law restricting street blockades has come into force.
“For the first time in a year, radicals have failed to block the street. This signifies that the new legislation is now in effect. Of course, we must not become complacent; we need to continue working diligently,” Kobakhidze told journalists.
Prime Minister stated that radicalism must be eradicated in Georgia, as “fifty radicals cannot commit violence against 3.7 million citizens.”
He went on to say that the failure to mobilize even 300 participants on Rustaveli Avenue during full mobilization efforts demonstrates that the gatherings are not genuine protests but rather “radical rallies financed from abroad.”
“Every day, around 50 people block the street, so it is only logical that approximately 20–25 individuals are detained daily. This is not a protest. When even 300 people cannot be mobilized on Rustaveli Avenue, despite full mobilization efforts, it signifies that this is not a protest but a radical rally funded from abroad,” Kobakhidze stated, thanking the Ministry of Internal Affairs for its actions.
The Prime Minister also emphasized that Georgian society has consistently rejected radicalism and foreign influence, citing the ruling party’s sustained electoral support.
“The radical opposition is a group of foreign agents working in coordination with their foreign benefactors. This constitutes a betrayal of their own country and people. Society is well aware of this, which is why over 1,100,000 citizens have consistently voted in favor of the ruling party for two consecutive years, reaffirming their rejection of radicalism and foreign interference,” Kobakhidze added.
