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Police Use Tear Gas to Repel Push on Georgian Presidential Palace During Local Elections

Opposition organizers cast the rally as a peaceful bid to contest Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s legitimacy.

Overview

  • Hundreds gathered in central Tbilisi after a delayed start and marched toward the presidential palace during municipal voting.
  • Some participants tried to force the palace railings before police moved in to stop an attempted breach.
  • Interfax reported that special forces deployed irritant spray to disperse the crowd and prevent entry to the complex.
  • Authorities had warned on the eve of the rally that any attempt at a revolution would be met with firm repression.
  • Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, quoted via TASS, said Georgian Dream was leading with more than 70% of votes in municipalities, while organizer Paata Burchuladze reported eye irritation and said he sought to return power to the people.