Day: June 8, 2025

Non-stop protests have been taking place across Georgia for 193 days since Georgian Dream announced it was halting the EU integration process. Since then, protesters have blocked Tbilisi’s Rustaveli Avenue, where the parliament building is located, every day, while daily gatherings have also taken place in other major Georgian cities. Georgian Dream authorities, whose legitimacy is disputed after the contested October 26, 2024, parliamentary elections, have responded to the protests with force and repression.

The one-party parliament has introduced a series of repressive laws to crack down on dissent, independent media, and civil society. Dozens have been arrested and remain in jail on criminal charges, including protesters, opposition leaders, and journalist Mzia Amaglobeli. Key demands include the release of political prisoners, the resignation of the GD government, and the scheduling of new elections.

For earlier developments, refer to our previous: 

• Liveblog: Resistance 2024,
• Liveblog: Resistance 2025, Vol. 1

Sunday, June 8

20:30 – Protesters Block Tbilisi’s Rustaveli Avenue

Protesters again blocked the road in front of the parliament building on Tbilisi’s Rustaveli Avenue on Day 193 of non-stop protests.

20:00 – Families of Political Prisoners Head to Samegrelo

Family members of those jailed on criminal charges during the ongoing protests have traveled to the western Georgian Samegrelo region to distribute newspapers containing letters from political prisoners. As part of their trip, they also visited the village of Rukhi near the occupation line with Abkhazia, and later took part in the daily protest in the city of Zugdidi, the regional center. They previously handed out the newspapers in Tbilisi.

Friday, June 6

20:00 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked to Traffic

Protesters again gathered on Tbilisi’s Rustaveli Avenue, blocking traffic in front of parliament on Day 191 of non-stop resistance. There was a larger-than-usual police deployment after a group of protesters started crossing the side street, which drivers used to bypass the blocked area, further disrupting traffic. The police pushed the protesters onto the sidewalks and cordoned off the roadway. 

Photos: Nino Saghiridze/Civil.ge

17:50 – Activist Put in Seven-Day Detention for “Insulting” GD MP Tsulukiani

Tbilisi City Court Judge Lela Tsagareishvili sentenced Beka Papashvili to seven days of administrative detention for allegedly insulting GD MP Tea Tsulukiani. The case stems from an April 12 incident near Tsulukiani’s house in Tbilisi, where activists rallied in protest of her controversial remark about Georgian national hero Giorgi Antsukhelidze, whom she called “senselessly sacrificed” for then-President Mikheil Saakashvili and “his PR campaign.” At the rally near Tsulukiani’s house, Papashvili shouted swear words at “all the traitors.”

16:50 – Court Sentences Activist to 10 Days of Administrative Detention

Tbilisi City Court Judge Davit Tetradze sentenced Ucha Kemashvili to ten days of administrative detention for disobeying a lawful police order under Article 173 of the Administrative Offenses Code. He was arrested on May 27. His family believes the real reason for the detention was that Kemashvili had burned the ruling party’s flag the day before. Police, however, claim he was stopped for an identity check, refused to comply, and was detained.

12:30 – GD to Sue Critics Over “Insults” on Social Media

Georgian Dream lawmaker Irakli Kirtskhalia announced that the party is taking legal action in response to what it said was an “externally funded hate speech campaign” targeting its faction members, including by suing critics over “filthiest phrases and insults published in social media, public space,” and directed against officials. The faction is filing a complaint with the Ministry of Internal Affairs to prevent the future spread of “destructive, extremely insulting hate speech” aimed at discrediting state institutions, Kirtskhalia said. The statement follows the recent trend of activists accused of “insulting” Georgian Dream MPs being fined and detained, after the legislative changes in February classified verbal insults against political officials and civil servants as administrative offenses.

Thursday, June 5

22:00 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked as Protesters Unite at Parliament

Protesters again blocked Tbilisi’s Rustaveli Avenue for traffic as they gathered in front of parliament on the 190th consecutive day of non-stop protests.

17:15 – GD MP Sues Activist Over Protest Chant

According to a Facebook post by activist Lekso Samkharadze, Georgian Dream MP Davit Matikashvili has filed a complaint against him following a June 2 protest, during which Samkharadze sang an anti-government chant at the GD lawmaker. The case adds to a growing pattern, as three women have already faced administrative charges in two separate incidents involving alleged insults toward Georgian Dream MPs.

Wednesday, June 4

20:55 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked to Traffic

On the 189th consecutive day of anti-regime demonstrations, protesters gathered outside the Parliament building in Tbilisi, blocking Rustaveli Avenue to traffic.

19:40 – Reports of Two Injured as Police Prevent Banner Display on Rustaveli

Police prevented protesters, including the mother and friends of detained student Tatia Apriamashvili, from displaying a banner on Rustaveli Avenue demanding her release. Officers dragged them back onto the sidewalk. Two were reportedly injured, with visible bruises sustained during confrontation with police. Tatia Apriamashvili and university peer Lika Lortkipanidze were sentenced to 12 days of administrative detention on May 30 after the court found them guilty of allegedly insulting Georgian Dream MP Mariam Lashkhi.

17:20 – Court Jails Activist for 10 Days Over Alleged Insult of GD MP Tsulukiani

Tbilisi City Court Judge Manuchar Tsatsua sent activist Albi Kordzaia to ten days of administrative detention over allegedly insulting GD MP Tea Tsulukiani, who also chairs the one-party parliament’s temporary investigative commission probing alleged UNM crimes. The incident stems from the April 12 rally near Tsulukiani’s house after her controversial remarks about Giorgi Antsukhelidze, a Georgian soldier tortured and killed during the August 2008 War, sparked protests. Previously, on May 30, the Tbilisi City Court sentenced two other female activists to 12 days of administrative detention for allegedly insulting Georgian Dream MP Mariam Lashkhi, an action that sparked student protests.

12:00 – Journalists Say MIA Rejected Their Appeals on Fines

The Interior Ministry has rejected appeals of journalists who say they were fined GEL 5,000 (USD 1,800) for “blocking” the road while carrying out their professional duties. OC-Media co-founder Mariam Nikuradze, who has been covering protests and received four such fines over the past months, said today MIA rejected her appeal on one of the fines, while the rest are still processed. Earlier, on May 31, Khatia Ghoghoberidze, editor of Aprili, an online outlet, also reported a similar rejection by MIA. Many reported that their appeals of MIA fines for allegedly “blocking” roads were stuck in drawn-out procedures at the Ministry. These rejections can be appealed in court.

Tuesday, June 3

12:00 – Georgian Dream Targets Critical Broadcasters for Questioning Government Legitimacy

The ruling Georgian Dream party filed complaints with Georgia’s media regulator, the Communications Commission, against the two largest opposition-leaning channels, Formula and TV Pirveli, for using in the coverage terminology questioning the GD government’s legitimacy, among others. Read More.

Monday, June 2

13:00 – Students at Ilia State University Go on Strike Over Detention of Peers

Students at Ilia State University have gone on strike to protest the recent administrative detention of several students, including Lika Lortkipanidze, Tatia Apriamashvili and Luka Natsvlishvili. Banners hung on university buildings read “Illegitimate regime should resign” and “Freedom to students.” Some university lecturers also joined the strike in solidarity.

15:00 – Court Jails Two for Three Years for Camera Damage During Protests

Tbilisi City Court sentenced activists Daniel Mumladze and Guram Khutashvili to three years in prison for damaging surveillance cameras during protests on Tbilisi’s Rustaveli Avenue in December 2024. Mumladze, 23, and Khutashvili, 26, were detained in December on separate occasions but under the same charges. Both admitted to the offense and sought a plea bargain that would grant their release on parole. However, the prosecutors rejected the deal. Read More.

Friday, May 30

16:30 – Journalist Gogsadze Fined 5000 GEL

Tbilisi City Court Judge Lela Tsagareishvili has fined journalist Natia Gogsadze 5,000 GEL [1,825 USD] for allegedly blocking a road on February 2.

16:00 – Activist Tatia Apriamashvili Sentenced to 12 Days’ Detention

Tatia Apriamashvili, a civic activist, has been sentenced to 12 days of administrative detention for allegedly insulting Georgian Dream MP Mariam Lashkhi. The prosecution requested her detention, and the judge upheld the motion. Similar to the case of Lika Lortkipanidze, Apriamashvili’s detention stems from a May 17 incident in which civic activists confronted the MP at a café.

14:20 – 20-Year-Old Student Detained Over Alleged Insult of GD MP

20-year-old student Lika Lortkipanidze has been sentenced to 12 days of administrative detention for allegedly insulting Georgian Dream MP Mariam Lashkhi. The prosecution had requested her detention, and the judge upheld the motion. The case stems from an incident on May 17, when civic activists confronted the MP at a café.

14:00 – Tornike Skhvitaridze Detained, Ani Kavtaradze Fined for Alleged Police Insult

Tbilisi City Court Judge Nino Enukidze has sentenced Tornike Skhvitaridze, brother of another protest participant Saba Skhvitaridze, to five days of administrative detention and fined Ani Kavtaradze 5,000 GEL [1,825 USD] for the alleged insult of police officer Mirian Kavtaradze.

11:40 – Resistance Platform Appeals to Weimar Triangle Countries for Support Amid Crisis

The Resistance Platform has addressed the Weimar Triangle countries with a formal letter, reaffirming its commitment to Georgia’s European path and calling for concerted international action to resolve the country’s ongoing political crisis. According to the platform developing a coherent and effective EU policy framework toward Georgia, implementing targeted sanctions against those undermining democracy, organizing free, fair, and transparent parliamentary elections, outlining a clear roadmap for restoring democratic governance and Georgia’s European trajectory, providing robust support for civil society, independent media, and the democratic opposition, and ensuring the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners are essential steps toward resolving the current crisis and reaffirming Georgia’s commitment to democratic values. The Platform emphasized that these actions are critical not only for resolving the current crisis but also for reaffirming Georgia’s alignment with the core values and standards of Europe.

Thursday, May 29

15:00 – Court Postpones Nika Melia’s Hearing to May 30

Nika Melia, one of the leaders of the opposition Coalition for Change, had his court hearing postponed to May 30 at 14:00. Melia and the prosecutor were both absent from today’s session. In a Facebook post, Melia stated that the judge for scheduling the next hearing for tomorrow despite his lawyer’s request to move it to Monday due to other trials, adding, “I won’t be there tomorrow either.” Melia faces charges for refusing to appear before a parliamentary investigative commission—an act linked to his refusal to recognize the Georgian Dream government. Noncompliance with such a commission can result in bail or up to one year of imprisonment.

Tuesday, May 27

21:40 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked to Traffic

On the 181st consecutive day of anti-regime demonstrations, protesters gathered outside the Parliament building in Tbilisi, blocking Rustaveli Avenue to traffic.

20:10 – Protesters Rally Outside Georgian Dream Office

Under the slogan “The People Decide,” protesters gathered outside the Georgian Dream office to voice opposition to the ruling party’s grip on power. Demonstrators emphasized that the public has the right to choose who governs them, accusing Georgian Dream of transforming into a party with authoritarian traits. “This building has become the symbol of state capture,” said one protester, arguing that Georgian Dream controls all branches of government, from the legislature to the judiciary and law enforcement. Among the protesters were also family members of those they say were unjustly detained during recent pro-European rallies.

19:25 – Batumi Court Orders 12-Day Detention for Activist Luka Natsvlishvili

Batumi City Court has ordered 12 days of pre-trial detention for Luka Natsvlishvili, an activist and member of the youth organization of the opposition force Strong Georgia. Natsvlishvili was arrested on May 26 in Batumi on charges of petty hooliganism and disobedience to a lawful police order, following his participation in protest activity.

16:50 – MEPs Visit Tbilisi, Meet Families of Detained Protesters

Lithuanian MEP Rasa Juknevičienė, along with other Members of the European Parliament, visited Tbilisi and met with the families of individuals detained during recent pro-European rallies. Juknevičienė emphasized that “B. Ivanishvili’s prisons hold students, actors, journalists, politicians, and many others simply because they participated in demonstrations.” In a separate Facebook post, she noted that the delegation had requested a meeting with imprisoned journalist and Batumelebi/Netgazeti director Mzia Amaghlobeli, but the authorities denied access — a decision she said “did not surprise” them.

Saturday, May 24

16:00 – Opposition Politican Grigol Gegelia Attacked

Grigol Gegelia, a member of the opposition Strong Georgia coalition, was attacked near his parents’ home, the coalition’s press office confirmed. According to the office, Gegelia was ambushed by an unidentified individual who first verbally insulted him and then physically assaulted him. Gegelia sustained minor head injuries and received on-site medical attention. The attacker fled the scene. Police remain at the location, the office noted.

Friday, May 23

20:50 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked to Traffic

On the 177th consecutive day of anti-regime demonstrations, protesters gathered outside the Parliament building in Tbilisi, blocking Rustaveli Avenue to traffic.

18:20 – Court Fines Publika Journalist for Blocking Road

Tbilisi City Court Judge Zviad Tsekvava fined online media outlet Publika journalist Mariam Kavshbaia 5,000 GEL for blocking the road. Publika says its journalist was carrying out her professional duties by covering the protest on Rustaveli Avenue.

17:00 – Activists Fined After Verbal Altercation With Georgian Dream MP Zarkua

The Zugdidi court fined activists Mariam Sitchinava and Keren Esebua 4,000 and 3,500 GEL. The case concerns a complaint filed by Irakli Zarkua, the Georgian Dream MP, who claims that the activists insulted him. On May 20, Zarkua was at a restaurant in Zugdidi, in western Georgia, when a verbal altercation occurred between him and the activists.

12:30 – Detainees Report Police Mistreatment on May 22’s Tbilisi Court Protest

Representatives of the Public Defender’s Office visited two individuals who were detained on May 22 while protesting near the Tbilisi City Court in support of opposition politician Zurab Japaridze, who was being sent to pre-trial detention. The detainees reported possible excessive use of force and mistreatment by the police. “One of them had visible bodily injuries, including swelling, redness, bruises, and scratches on their limbs,” the Office said. It referred the case to the Special Investigation Service for appropriate legal action and pledged to continue monitoring the ongoing legal proceedings.

Thursday, May 22

21:40 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked to Traffic

On the 176th consecutive day of anti-Georgian Dream demonstrations, protesters gathered outside the Parliament building in Tbilisi, blocking Rustaveli Avenue to traffic.

19:00 – Two Activists Detained

Civil activists Albi Kordzaia and Salome Kenchiashvili were detained near Tbilisi City Court and charged under Articles 166 and 173 of the Administrative Offenses Code, which pertain to petty hooliganism and disobedience to a lawful order.

Wednesday, May 21

21:40 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked to Traffic

On the 175th consecutive day of anti-Georgian Dream demonstrations, protesters gathered outside the Parliament building in Tbilisi, blocking Rustaveli Avenue to traffic.

16:00 – Opposition Activist Says GD MP Irakli Zarkua Filed Complaint Against Her

Mariam Sitchinava, an activist of the opposition Droa party, reported that Georgian Dream MP Irakli Zarkua has filed a complaint against her. “I have been summoned to the Zugdidi regional police department in one hour to receive case materials,” Sitchinava wrote on social media. The complaint follows a May 20 incident where Sitchinava and another activist confronted Zarkua at the restaurant in Zugdidi, Western Georgia, resulting in a brief exchange of insults before Zarkua left the venue.

Tuesday, May 20

22:00 – ALDE Party Stands with Georgian Opposition Leader Zurab Japaridze

The Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE) Party has voiced strong support for Zurab Japaridze, leader of the Georgian opposition party Girchi – More Freedom, amid the risk of his imprisonment for refusing to pay a 20,000 GEL bail. ALDE declared, “We stand with our Georgian member party Girchi – More Freedom and leader Zurab Japaridze,” after he rejected the bail as a protest against the ruling Georgian Dream government. The bail stems from his refusal to appear before a parliamentary investigative commission, formed by Georgian Dream on February 5 to probe alleged crimes under the former UNM government—now expanded to include the period from 2003 to the present.

21:20 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked to Traffic

On the 174rd consecutive day of anti-regime demonstrations, protesters gathered outside Parliament in Tbilisi and blocked Rustaveli Avenue to traffic.

20:20 – Judge Sends Nika Gvaramia’s Case to Trial Despite Motion to Dismiss

At today’s pre-trial hearing at Tbilisi City Court, Judge Levan Gelovani ruled that the criminal case against Nika Gvaramia will proceed to substantive review. During the hearing, one of the leaders of the opposition force “Coalition for Change” filed a motion to terminate the proceedings, but the judge rejected the request. Gvaramia argued that the article under which he is charged mirrors a provision in the Code of Administrative Offenses, which prescribes only a fine, and therefore requested the termination of the criminal case. He faces charges for failing to appear before a parliamentary investigative commission, established by the ruling Georgian Dream party, which was initially set up on February 5 to investigate alleged crimes committed under the former United National Movement (UNM) government. As a preventive measure, a bail of 30,000 GEL [10950 USD] has been imposed on Gvaramia.

17:00 – EU Commissioner Marta Kos Urges GD Government to Return to European Path, Calls on Citizens to Stay Strong

During a doorstep interview at the Foreign Affairs Council, European Commissioner Marta Kos urged the Georgian Dream government to return to the European path, warning that without this commitment, progress with the EU cannot continue. Addressing both officials and citizens, she stated, “To Georgian Dream: the government has to come back to the European path—unless, we are not willing and will not be able to go on. And the people of Georgia: stay strong, fight for European values, we count on you.”

Monday, May 19

21:30 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked to Traffic

On the 173rd consecutive day of anti-regime demonstrations, protesters gathered outside Parliament in Tbilisi and blocked Rustaveli Avenue to traffic.

21:00 – Tbilisi City Court Continues Hearing for 11 Detained Protesters

Tbilisi City Court Judge Nino Galustashvili held a hearing for eleven individuals detained during anti-regime protests. Police officers Saba Nabakhteveli and Ivane Kapanadze, who hold victim status in the case, were questioned. According to online media outlet Publika, both officers stated that they did not know the defendants and couldn’t recall seeing them at the protest. The next court hearing is scheduled for May 27.

The defendants – Andro Chichinadze, Onise Tskhadadze, Guram Mirtskhulava, Jano Archaia, Luka Jabua, Ruslan Sivakov, Revaz Kiknadze, Giorgi Terashvili, Valeri Tetrashvili, and Sergei Kukharchuk – are charged with participating in group violence during the December protests. The charges fall under Article 225, Part 2 of the Georgian Criminal Code and carry a prison sentence of four to six years.

Sunday, May 18

20:00 – “We See You”: Protesters March Through Tbilisi Demanding Justice and Government Resignation

A unity march titled “We See You” was held today, as protesters marched to the State Security Service and the Special Investigative Service before moving to Rustaveli Avenue, carrying a massive banner calling on the Georgian Dream government to resign. Demonstrators reminded the regime once again that they will not back down and will continue fighting for a free, European future. At key government buildings, citizens staged performances demanding accountability for violent police officers. “Street protest is the only way today to express disobedience and reject injustice both in Georgia and beyond. We will never forget their sadistic and violent actions, and that’s why we reminded them once again today that we are not afraid and we will not stop,” said actress Nanka Kalatozishvili.

14:00 – New Political Movement Founded

“Youth Power” is a newly founded political movement by young people who have been protesting against the regime for months. They believe that overcoming the political crisis requires greater youth involvement in political processes. Their key message is that the voice of protest must be heard from every region of Georgia. To achieve this, the movement is forming regional teams to engage directly with the public and explain the vital role of street protest in resisting the regime. The first regional meeting will take place in Adjara.

Friday, May 16

21:30 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked to Traffic

On the 170th consecutive day of anti-regime resistance, protesters in Tbilisi once again gathered near the parliament on Rustaveli Avenue, blocking it to traffic.

13:00 – TI Georgia on Persecution of Solidarity Funds: GD Government Abuses Legal System to Repress Protesters

Transparency International Georgia has criticized that the ruling Georgian Dream party of orchestrating a campaign of repression against peaceful protesters and against solidarity funds. The watchdog says the government, under the influence of billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili, has intensified law enforcement actions against those offering legal or humanitarian support to demonstrators. After reviewing the relevant cases, the organization said the investigations lack concrete evidence to prove that the targeted foundations or individuals committed any criminal offenses. “All procedural actions taken so far would lead to the dismissal of the case by an independent court,” the TI Georgia said.

The organization said the initiation of the investigations was preceded by anti-Western and pro-government propaganda campaigns by outlets such as Imedi, POS TV, the Public Broadcaster and Rustavi 2, which sought to discredit the solidarity funds. TI Georgia argued that the subsequent legal actions appear to be part of a broader campaign to suppress dissent and intimidate citizens engaged in peaceful protest or mutual aid. TI Georgia called the cases “another clear example” of state capture by the ruling party and Ivanishvili, and criticized the silence of oversight bodies such as the Special Investigation Service and the Public Defender’s Office.

11:15 – Journalist Nika Katsia Remanded in Custody

Tbilisi City Court Judge Tamar Mchedlishvili has upheld the pre-trial detention of journalist Nika Katsia, who was arrested during the anti-regime protest on December 7. He is charged under Article 260, Part 6 of the Criminal Code, which pertains to the illegal purchase and possession of a large quantity of narcotic substances. This offense carries a prison sentence ranging from eight to 20 years or life imprisonment.

Thursday, May 15

18:00 – Tbilisi Court Continues Hearings for 11 Protest Detainees

Tbilisi City Court held another hearing in the case of 11 individuals detained on criminal charges during recent protests. During today’s session, two prosecution witnesses were questioned. The trial of the 11 individuals – Andro Chichinadze, Onise Tskhadadze, Guram Mirtskhulava, Jano Archaia, Luka Jabua, Ruslan Sivakov, Revaz Kiknadze, Giorgi Terashvili, Valeri Tetrashvili, Sergei Kukharchuk, and Irakli Kerashvili – will continue on May 19 with the examination of evidence and further witness testimony.

15:00 – Detained Protester Temur Katamadze Begins Three-Day Hunger Strike

According to the online news outlet Publika, Temur Katamadze, who was detained during pro-EU rallies in January began a three-day symbolic hunger strike to protest the Migration Department’s refusal to deliver a food package sent to him. Katamadze stated that he would dedicate the second day of his protest to businessmen Giorgi Chikvaidze and Irakli Papiashvili, who were sentenced to nine and eight years in prison, respectively, and the third day to the Chiatura miners, who have been on a months-long labor protest.

Wednesday, May 14

19:00 – Tbilisi City Court Continues Hearing Eight Protesters’ Case

Tbilisi City Court Judge Tamar Mchedlishvili held the hearing in the case of eight individuals arrested during anti-regime protests. During the hearing, five police officers, who hold victim status in the case, were questioned as prosecution witnesses. The next hearing is scheduled for May 23 and will continue with the examination of evidence. Three of the defendants – Zviad Tsetskhladze, Vepkhia Kasradze, and Vasil Kadzelashvili – are charged with organizing and leading group violence. If convicted, they face up to nine years in prison. The remaining five – Irakli Miminoshvili, Insaf Aliyev, Tornike Goshadze, Nikoloz Javakhishvili, and Giorgi Giorgadze – are charged with participating in group violence and face prison terms ranging from four to six years.

Tuesday, May 13

20:50 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked to Traffic

On the 167th consecutive day of anti-regime resistance, protesters once again gathered near the parliament on Rustaveli Avenue, blocking it to traffic.

19:55 – CPJ Condemns Assault on TV Pirveli Crew

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), an independent nonprofit organization that promotes press freedom worldwide, has condemned the recent assault on a TV Pirveli crew. The attack took place while they were filming an interview with Giorgi Shinjikashvili, the recently resigned governor of Kvemo Kartli. Journalist Mariam Makasarashvili was hospitalized with a concussion as a result of the incident. CPJ’s Europe and Central Asia program urged Georgian authorities to “tackle the rampant impunity for attacks on the press.”

17:30 – RSF Condemns Assault on TV Pirveli Crew, Citing Rising Impunity Against Journalists

Reporters Without Borders (RSF), a Paris-based press freedom watchdog, condemned the assault on a TV Pirveli crew that occurred the previous day while they were filming an interview with the recently resigned Kvemo Kartli governor Giorgi Shinjikashvili, an incident that left journalist Mariam Makasarashvili hospitalized with a concussion. “Impunity for violence against journalists is on the rise in Georgia, which fell 11 spots in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index,” the organization noted.

14:30 – Tbilisi Court Halts Deportation of Katamadze Pending Final Ruling

Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) reports that the Tbilisi City Court has granted its request and suspended the Migration Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ April 30 decision, regarding the deportation of detained Temur Katamadze from Georgia, until the court makes a final decision. “The court will consider the submitted lawsuit without oral hearing within 30 days,” the GYLA noted.

Monday, May 12

16:00 – TV Pirveli Alleges Assault on Journalist by Former Official’s Father

The father of recently resigned Kvemo Kartli deputy governor (state representative) Giorgi Shinjikashvili allegedly assaulted a TV Pirveli journalist, Mariam Makasarashvili, according to the channel’s head of news, Nodar Meladze. Meladze said the incident occurred after the TV Pirveli crew arrived at Shinjikashvili’s residence to report on his resignation from the post. According to Meladze, the journalist was physically attacked. Shinjikashvili’s father allegedly took her phone and seized the crew’s camera.

14:00 – Unidentified Men Allegedly Pepper-Sprayed Activist and Threatened Her

Taia Tsekvava, a participant in the anti-regime protests, wrote on social media that she was assaulted on her way home. According to her, she was approached by two unidentified men, one of whom sprayed her in the face with pepper spray before both assailants threw her to the ground. As they fled, she said, they warned her, “If you show up at the rally again, be prepared for worse.”

Sunday, May 11

18:30 -Pro-American March Passes by US Embassy in Tbilisi

The pro-American protest march passes by the U.S. Embassy, with many demonstrators holding U.S. flags and chanting, “Sanctions are coming! – GD is panicking!”

Photos: Nini Gabritchidze/Civil.ge

16:00 – Protest “Thanks to MEGOBARI” Kicks off

Protesters gathered in Tbilisi’s western district near the Akhmeteli Theater metro station before marching toward the U.S. Embassy. The pro-American rally, branded with the slogan “Thanks to MEGOBARI” – a reference to the U.S. bill named after the Georgian word for “friend” that seeks to sanction Georgian Dream representatives – serves as a show of gratitude for continued American support, with participants calling for the GD government’s resignation.

Saturday, May 10

22:00 – Rustaveli Avenue Blocked to Traffic

On the 164th consecutive day of anti-regime resistance, protesters once again gathered near the parliament on Rustaveli Avenue, blocking it to traffic.

Friday, May 9

21:40 – Protesters Return to Rustaveli Avenue

From Europe Square, the protesters went back to Rustaveli Avenue and blocked it to traffic, ending the 163rd consecutive day of anti-regime resistance.

20:30 – Pro-EU Marches Unite at Europe Square

The marches gradually converged along the Mtkvari riverbank and culminated at Europe Square. Family members of those detained in recent months addressed the crowd, which eyewitnesses estimated to be in the thousands, larger than usual.

• Photo Story | May 9 Marches in Tbilisi on Europe Day

18:30 – Europe Day marches Kick Off

Citizens have started marching to Europe Square in Tbilisi to mark Europe Day. The marches started from the Parliament, the Republic Square, the building of the public broadcaster and the Marjanishvili and Isani metro stations. “Euro-integration! More sanctions against Georgian Dream!” the demonstrators chanted.

Thursday, May 8

21:00 – Rustaveli Avenue Closed to Traffic

On the 162nd consecutive day of anti-regime demonstrations, protesters gathered near the Parliament building in Tbilisi. Rustaveli Avenue has been closed to traffic.

19:30 – Mzia Amaghlobeli’s Court Continues on May 16

The next court hearing for Mzia Amaghlobeli, founder of Batumelebi and Netgazeti, is scheduled for May 16 at 1 p.m. She faces charges under Article 353 prima of Georgia’s Criminal Code, which relates to assaulting a police officer. During today’s session, Batumi Police Department Chief Irakli Dgebuadze — the officer Amaghlobeli is accused of assaulting — took the stand and testified that she slapped him in the face, causing pain. When Amaghlobeli asked what level of harm justified a charge carrying a sentence of four to seven years in prison, Dgebuadze said he did not wish to see her incarcerated but emphasized that the offense is clearly defined by law. Dgebuadze left the courtroom to the sound of chants and commotion from attendees.

13:30 – US-Georgian Lawyer Ted Jonas Takes Police Brutality Case to ECtHR

Ted Jonas, a dual Georgian-American citizen and prominent business and environmental lawyer, who was beaten and arrested by police during protests against the Foreign Agents Law on the night of April 30 -May 1 2024, is taking his case to the European Court of Human Rights. He is appealing to the Court for violations by the Georgian authorities of his right to a fair trial and several other fundamental rights, including freedom of assembly and expression, the prohibition of torture and inhuman or degrading treatment, and the right to an effective remedy. TI-Georgia is representing him in the case. The organization noted that although the Special Investigation Service has been investigating these acts of violence for over a year, no results have been achieved and no one has been held accountable.

12:00 – Zautashvili and Ivanov-Chikovani Sue Public Broadcaster Over Dismissal

Former Georgian Public Broadcaster (GPB) hosts Nino Zautashvili and Vasil Ivanov-Chikovani have filed a lawsuit against the broadcaster at the Tbilisi City Court. The two are contesting an April 11 decision by GPB general director Tinatin Berdzenishvili to terminate their contracts. Zautashvili, a longtime talk show host, and Ivanov-Chikovani, a former news anchor, had openly criticized GPB’s board of trustees and expressed opposition to the ruling Georgian Dream party’s repressive policy. On April 30, GPB management informed the team behind Zautashvili’s show, Real Space, that the program would not be renewed beyond its current project term, citing Zautashvili’s dismissal as the reason. The editorial team of the show rejected the offer to be transferred to various programmes and departments within GPB.

11:30 – European Commission: GD’s Actions Are Alarming and Far From What’s Expected of EU Candidate

Speaking to Interpessnews, the press office of the European Commission said that the passage of the MEGOBARI Act by the U.S. House of Representatives shows that the international community is closely monitoring developments in Georgia. The office noted that the actions of the Georgian Dream government are alarming and far from what is expected of a candidate country. The Commission urged the ruling GD party to repeal the legislation, incompatible with European Union values.

Wednesday, May 7

21:30 – Rustaveli Avenue Closed to Traffic

On the 161st consecutive day of anti-regime demonstrations, protesters gathered near the Parliament building in Tbilisi. Rustaveli Avenue has been closed to traffic.

20:00 – Tbilisi City Court Hears Case of 8 Defendants Detained During Anti-Regime Protests

Tbilisi City Court Judge Tamar Mchedlishvili held a hearing for eight individuals detained during anti-regime protests, during which five prosecution witnesses testified. The defendants – Zviad Tsetskhladze, Vepkhia Kasradze, Vasil Kadzelashvili, Giorgi Gorgadze, Irakli Miminoshvili, Insaf Aliev, Tornike Goshadze, and Nikoloz Javakhishvili – face criminal charges, with the first three accused of organizing and directing the violence, carrying potential sentences of up to nine years in prison, while the others face four to six years for alleged participation.

Three of the witnesses questioned – Givi Tsikoridze, Giorgi Zabakidze, and Vasil Basiladze, who have been recognized as victims in the case – testified that objects were thrown at them during the protests, but couldn’t identify the perpetrators. The next hearing is scheduled for May 18 at 11 a.m., with additional testimony expected.

11:40 – New Administrative Case Filed Against Mzia Amaghlobeli

The Ministry of Internal Affairs has launched a new administrative case against Mzia Amaghlobeli under Article 150 of Georgia’s Administrative Code, which concerns the “defacement of the appearance of a territory within municipal boundaries.” This follows her initial detention on January 11, when she was charged for posting a sticker calling for a nationwide strike on the wall near the police station.

Tuesday, May 6

21:40 – Rustaveli Avenue Closed to Traffic

On the 160th day of anti-GD demonstrations, protesters gather near the Parliament building in Tbilisi. Rustaveli Avenue is closed to traffic.

15:20 – CSOs Condemn Criminal Charges Against February 2 Protesters as Politically Motivated

During a joint press briefing, representatives of various CSOs discussed the February 2, 2025, detention of eight individuals near Tbilisi City Mall in connection with charges of blocking a highway. Londa Toloraia, one of the leaders of My Vote, argued that by “criminalizing” highway blockades, the Georgian Dream government aims to persecute protesters, restrict freedom of expression, and suppress protest momentum. Toloraia stated that the handling of these cases violated the Criminal Code—particularly, the detention terms for all eight individuals were breached. She also emphasized that the personal search was conducted unlawfully, the charges are illegal, the case classification is incorrect, and the evidence was seized in violation of procedural law. Eka Gigauri, Executive Director of Transparency International Georgia, added that “punishing these people under criminal law is politically motivated.”

On February 4, eight protesters detained during the February 2 demonstration near Tbilisi Mall were charged under the Criminal Code of Georgia, after their case was reclassified from an administrative offense. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the group is accused of attempting to block a highway—an area designated as a “strategic and specially important facility” by the Georgian Dream government just two days before the protest.

13:30 – GYLA Condemns Deportation Move Against Temur Katamadze as Unlawful

The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia has initiated deportation procedures against Temur Katamadze (Gaffar Yilmaz), following the April 29, 2025, decision by the Tbilisi Court of Appeals denying his request for international protection. According to the Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA), a local watchdog, the court’s refusal was both unlawful and unsubstantiated. The organization points out that the decision was issued by the same judge who had previously rejected Katamadze’s citizenship application, and his motion for the judge’s recusal was dismissed without proper justification. GYLA also emphasized that the court refused to hear key witnesses and stressed that humanitarian or refugee status was Katamadze’s only legal avenue to remain in Georgia.

GYLA criticized the Migration Department for initiating deportation the very next day, granting Katamadze just ten days to leave the country. He is now appealing the decision and seeking to suspend the deportation. GYLA links the case to his public political activism, noting that he was previously detained and allegedly mistreated by police. The organization sees this as part of a pattern of using legal tools to silence dissent.

00:00 – Activist Says She Was Assaulted at Apartment Building

Activist Nutsa Makharadze said she and a friend were attacked by an individual near her residential building. According to Makharadze, the assailant sprayed them with pepper spray and paint and shouted at them “Natsi” [the derogatory term used to refer to members and supporters of the United National Movement]. She posted a video on social media showing her face covered in paint and struggling to breathe.

Monday, May 5

21:10 – Rustaveli Avenue Closed to Traffic

On the 159th day of anti-GD demonstrations, protesters gather near the Parliament building in Tbilisi. Rustaveli Avenue is closed to traffic.

15:20 – Mothers, Women Politicians Rally at Tbilisi Court

Mothers of those detained during the pro-EU protests, alongside several female politicians, gathered outside Tbilisi City Court, holding banners bearing the names of individuals who are unlawfully imprisoned. The protest targeted the court specifically to address judges and prosecutors whom they accuse of fabricating evidence and unlawfully prolonging detentions. As part of a symbolic act, participants attempted to bring a wooden cart into the courtyard, but court bailiffs intervened and dismantled the protest symbol. Demonstrators chanted, “Justice will still come! Freedom for political prisoners!”

Sunday, May 4

17:50 – Protesters March to Interior Ministry, Demand the GD’s Resignation

On the 158th consecutive day of anti-regime protests, activists, opposition politicians, and families of those detained during the demonstrations marched from Tbilisi’s Isani Metro Station to the Interior Ministry building, demanding the resignation of the Georgian Dream government. Many carried banners and posters displaying images of injured activists and police officers accused of giving false testimony in court against detainees, denouncing what they described as systemic abuse within the MIA.

Saturday, May 3

21:50 – Rustaveli Avenue Closed to Traffic

On the 157th day of anti-regime demonstrations, protesters rally near the Parliament building in Tbilisi. Rustaveli Avenue is closed to traffic.

16:00 – Activist Levan Zazadze Released

Levan Zazadze, who was detained during the April 21 protest on Rustaveli Avenue, has been released. He served 12 days in detention following a ruling by Tbilisi City Court Judge Koba Chagunava.

15:30 – Families of Detainees Protest Outside Judicial Conference in Tbilisi

Family members of those detained during the recent protests, along with activists, demonstrated…