Two Georgia opposition leaders arrested at anti-government protest
GuardianJAN 27
Republic of Georgia Arrests Opposition Leaders Amid EU Membership Protests
Above: As hundreds of protesters tried to block a highway near the Tbilisi Mall, police made numerous arrests, including two opposition leaders on February 2, 2025. Image copyright: Jerome Gilles/Contributor/NurPhoto via Getty Images
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
The Georgian government's actions represent necessary law enforcement measures to maintain public order and prevent illegal road blockages, with the Interior Ministry clearly warning that such actions could result in criminal charges carrying up to four years in prison. The role of Western interference must also be probed.
Pro-establishment narrative
The crackdown demonstrates a pattern of democratic backsliding and state-sponsored violence, with authorities systematically targeting opposition figures, peaceful protesters, and journalists while moving the country away from its European path and closer to Russia.