The head of European diplomacy Kaia Kallas and European Commissioner Marta Kos called on all parties in Georgia to refrain from violence. Their statement was published on the website of the EU Delegation to Georgia.
The politicians asked the authorities to respect the right of citizens to freedom of assembly, and all parties to show calm and restraint.
Kalas and Kos believe that the local elections in Georgia were held in an atmosphere of “widespread suppression of dissent“. The press release emphasizes that the EU “strongly rejects“ and condemns disinformation about its role in the events in the country and condemns the attacks on EU Ambassador to the country.
“A constructive and inclusive dialogue between all political actors and civil society representatives is essential“, the press release said.
On 4 October, local elections were held in Georgia, during which citizens elected mayors of cities and municipalities and members of city councils. Against this backdrop, opposition members staged a protest in Tbilisi, which escalated into clashes with police, resulting in the use of tear gas and injuries. The rally was triggered by the announcement of the Georgian Dream party's victory in the elections and its decision to suspend its commitment to European integration.
The protesters demanded the resignation of the government and the resumption of progress towards the EU. Security forces used batons and water cannons, as more protesters flocked to the capital.