**Tbilisi Mayor Speaks Out on Human Rights and Police Misconduct**
In a recent conversation with journalists, Kakha Kaladze, the Mayor of Tbilisi, discussed the protection of human rights in Georgia. He acknowledged that there was misconduct on the part of some police officers during recent protests, but expressed concern about how certain groups are being labeled.
**Labeling Protesters “Prisoners of Conscience”**
The Mayor questioned why protesters who threw heavy objects and stones at law enforcement officers were being referred to as “prisoners of conscience”. This term is typically used to describe individuals who are imprisoned for their peaceful advocacy or activism. Kaladze argued that those who engage in violent behavior, such as throwing Molotov cocktails, cannot be considered prisoners of conscience.
**Concerns about Inciting Violence and Polarization**
Kaladze expressed concerns that by labeling these protesters “prisoners of conscience”, certain groups are being incited to violence and contributing to societal polarization. He noted that there is footage of the protesters committing crimes, including throwing objects at police officers. The Mayor also accused some external forces of financing and instructing these groups.
**Georgian Society’s Assessment**
Kaladze emphasized that the Georgian people are aware of these issues and have a negative attitude towards those who incite violence and polarization. He implied that some organizations or individuals outside of Georgia are behind this phenomenon, providing funding and guidance to certain groups.
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