Two detained at opposition demonstration in Tbilisi
Photo: Tabula
A demonstration organized by the United National Movement near the Tbilisi Local Government (sakrebulo) grew into a confrontation and stand-off between police and protestors.
Participants of the demonstration were protesting against the decision of city authorities to transfer two plots in the center of Tbilisi to companies connected with former Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili.
The Tbilisi Local Government planned to ratify the decision, according to which the companies that are connected with Ivanishvili would receive these plots for the symbolic price of one lari.
The local government building is guarded by reinforced police squads. Deputies from the United National Movement are not allowed in the building itself.
Two participants of the protest were arrested and accused of administrative violations. Amongst them was UNM majoritarian deputy Kote Ioseliani.
Representatives of the ruling Georgian Dream Party state that the opposition was trying to cause chaos with their destructive actions.
[su_pullquote]“Opposition is trying to cause chaos with their destructive actions”[/su_pullquote]
«We are making this decision in the interest of Tbilisi residents. Accordingly, no one has the right to take such destructive actions. Here is the main organ of self-governance», stated Giorgi Tkemaladze, Local Government Deputy Chairman.
The Tbilisi mayor’s office confirmed the decision to transfer the lands to companies founded by Ivanishvili. Now, the same must be done by Local Government.
Two plots of lands – an underground parking space on Freedom Square (1900 square meters) and a property located on Mount Tabori with a size of 4433 square meters.
The transfer of the plots to companies associated with Ivanishvili is being protested against not by the opposition only. There were also representatives of civil society near the Tbilisi Local Government and those belonging to the ‘green movement’ – Partisan Gardening.
Elections to the Local Government will take place in Georgia on 21 October which will further exacerbate the situation that has developed between them and the mayor’s office.
