Georgia’s post-election tensions deepen as protests arrests rise to 45

Georgia’s political crisis has intensified following the 4th October local elections and a protest in Tbilisi that ended in clashes and mass arrests.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs confirmed the detention of another suspect, bringing the total number of people charged in connection with the events of 4th October to 45.

The rally, billed as a “peaceful overthrow of the government,” began in Freedom Square and later moved toward the Presidential Administration on Atoneli Street.

Protesters breached the fence around the building before being dispersed by riot police using water cannons and tear gas.

Among those detained are former Chief Prosecutor Murtaz Zodelava, civic leader Paata Burchuladze, and several other organizers, now formally charged under four articles of the Criminal Code, including calls for violent change of the constitutional order and organizing group violence.

The Georgian Dream government has described the protest as an attempted coup, vowing to respond firmly.

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze accused opposition groups of trying to destabilize the country and even hinted at foreign involvement, comments that have drawn strong criticism at home and abroad.

The European Union has condemned what it called “months of increasing repression,” citing pressure on civil society and the media during the election period.

Brussels urged calm and restraint and denounced verbal attacks against the EU ambassador in Tbilisi. Several EU member states, including Lithuania and Latvia, questioned the credibility of the vote and demanded the release of detained protesters.

The United States has not yet commented directly on the 4th October arrests but has previously called on Georgia’s leaders to uphold democratic standards and judicial independence.

Meanwhile, divisions within the opposition are widening. Some factions call for continued street protests; others urge dialogue and participation within institutions.

Analysts warn that this disunity combined with the government’s hardline approach could lead to further political polarisation.

As court hearings begin for the detainees, the country remains on edge — caught between its pro-Western aspirations and an increasingly authoritarian reality.

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