Georgian Opposition Protests Parliamentary Election Results

Thousands of demonstrators rallied in Tbilisi, Georgia, protesting the results of the October 26 parliamentary elections, which they claim were rigged in favor of the ruling Georgian Dream party, which secured approximately 54% of the vote. Protesters, including opposition leaders and Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, demanded a new election under international oversight, citing increasing authoritarianism and pro-Russian sentiments within the ruling party. The opposition has vowed to continue daily protests until their demands are met and has rejected their parliamentary mandates. The protests are occurring amid heightened political tensions and allegations of Russian interference, leading to calls for investigations into the election process. The European Union has frozen Georgia's membership application due to concerns about democratic backsliding, exacerbating the public's frustrations. As opposition parties mobilize support, the situation remains volatile with significant implications for Georgia's political future.