**Tbilisi Protesters Take Oath for Georgia’s Freedom**
In a bold display of defiance against the current government, protesters in Tbilisi have taken an oath to defend their country’s freedom and independence. The oath was read at Heroes’ Square by Zurab Tsetskhladze, the father of Zviad Tsetskhladze, who is currently detained for his involvement in the protests.
According to Zurab Tsetskhladze, it was his son’s wish that he be the one to read the oath. He also announced that from now on, he will lead the protesters in every struggle they face in the name of Georgia’s freedom. This gesture has sparked hopes among the protesters that a new leader may emerge to spearhead their movement.
**A Familiar Ceremony**
This is not the first time students and protesters have gathered at Heroes’ Square to take an oath. On April 19 last year, a similar ceremony took place, with Zviad Tsetskhladze reading the text. The current oath has echoes of that earlier one, emphasizing the importance of defending Georgia’s statehood, language, homeland, unity, and faith.
**The Oath Itself**
The oath is a powerful statement of defiance against what protesters see as an attempt to undermine their country’s sovereignty by the Russian government. They pledge to stand united in defense of their nation and reject any force that seeks to hand Georgia over to its enemy.
“We, citizens of Georgia, Georgian patriots, have gathered here at Heroes’ Square to honor their memory and to take an oath before their spirits,” the text reads. “I swear that I will never give up the freedom won at the cost of their lives! I swear that I will never accept the force that seeks to hand our country over to its enemy, Russia.”
**Zviad’s Voice from Prison**
The protesters also listened to a voice message from Zviad Tsetskhladze, recorded from prison. The message was a defiant statement by the detained leader, urging his fellow protesters to continue their fight for freedom. Despite being in prison, Zviad’s words have inspired many, and his father’s promise to lead them has given new hope to the movement.
The protest is ongoing, with demonstrators marching towards Kashveti Church. The atmosphere remains tense, but the sense of unity and determination among the protesters is palpable.
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