Overview

• Georgia’s Central Election Commission reported the Georgian Dream party winning over 80 percent of votes in the municipal elections, with turnout reported at about 41 percent.
• Tens of thousands demonstrated in Tbilisi, a group tried to enter the presidential palace, and police used tear gas and a water cannon to push crowds back.
• Authorities reported injuries on both sides, including more than 20 hospitalized police officers and several injured demonstrators.
• Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze labeled the clashes an attempted coup, announced arrests of protest organizers, and signaled moves to bar the main opposition from political activity.
• Rights groups described the vote climate as repressive, parts of the opposition boycotted the polls, and EU figures warned of potential measures such as curbs on visa liberalization.