UPDATE: Georgia’s ruling party, the Georgian Dream, has claimed victory in local elections on October 7, 2023, while mass protests erupted in Tbilisi as police deployed tear gas and water cannons against thousands of anti-government demonstrators. This election marks the party’s first major test since a contentious parliamentary vote last year that destabilized the nation and stalled its EU accession process.
With nearly 75 percent of precincts reporting, the Central Election Commission revealed that Georgian Dream received over 80 percent of the vote, securing majorities in all municipal councils. Mayoral elections across all cities also resulted in resounding victories for the ruling party.
Despite the electoral success, the atmosphere turned volatile as opposition supporters flooded Tbilisi’s Freedom Square, rallying under the banners of Georgian and EU flags. They gathered for what was termed a “national assembly,” amidst increasing tensions following months of crackdowns on independent media and the imprisonment of numerous opposition figures.
As demonstrators attempted to breach the presidential palace, law enforcement responded with force, igniting chaos that included barricades set ablaze. In the aftermath, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze warned that anyone involved in violence would face prosecution, stating, “Every person involved in this violent act will be prosecuted.”
The protests were fueled by calls from jailed former president Mikheil Saakashvili, who labeled this election day as the “last chance” for Georgian democracy. “Without action, many more people will be arrested,” he warned, reflecting the urgent sentiment among protesters.
At the forefront of the demonstration, opera star and activist Paata Burchuladze proclaimed, “Power returns to the people,” declaring the government “illegitimate.” As the crowd surged towards the presidential compound, police responded aggressively, resulting in multiple arrests, including that of former prosecutor-general Murtaz Zodelava.
Rights organizations, including Amnesty International, condemned the elections as occurring amid severe political reprisals against opposition leaders and civil society. Over the past year, approximately 60 individuals, including key activists and journalists, have been jailed, highlighting the strained political climate.
Georgian Dream, which has held power since 2012, is led by billionaire former prime minister Bidzina Ivanishvili. Initially viewed as a liberal alternative, the party’s stance has shifted significantly amid geopolitical tensions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Critics allege that the party has adopted far-right policies and Kremlin-style restrictions against media and NGOs.
Despite these challenges, analysts suggest that Georgian Dream’s narrative—positioning itself as the protector of stability against a “Western deep state”—resonates with rural voters, amplifying disinformation to maintain support. A recent survey indicated the party’s approval rating at approximately 36 percent, compared to 54 percent for opposition groups.
As the situation develops, the European Union has issued warnings to Georgian Dream regarding potential sanctions for its handling of protests and governance issues. Officials have indicated that the EU may suspend visa-free travel rights for Georgians unless significant improvements are observed in the rule of law and the protection of human rights.
With protests continuing and the political landscape shifting rapidly, all eyes are on Georgia as it grapples with the implications of this election and the ongoing fight for democracy. The coming days will be critical as both government and opposition supporters brace for what may unfold in the streets of Tbilisi and beyond.
