**Protesters Block Traffic in Tbilisi, Mothers Demand Release of Detained Demonstrators**
For the 159th consecutive day, protesters gathered near the Parliament building in Tbilisi, causing traffic congestion on Rustaveli Avenue. This latest demonstration is just one example of the ongoing resistance against the Georgian government’s policies. Meanwhile, mothers of those detained during anti-regime protests held banners outside the Tbilisi City Court, demanding the release of their loved ones.
The situation in Georgia continues to escalate, with the opposition and civil society groups calling for an end to government repression. The proposed bill to amend the Law on Diplomatic Service has raised concerns that pro-EU diplomats may be targeted by the government. This move comes amid reports of a planned reorganization of the Foreign Ministry.
**GPB Show “Real Space” Refuses Transfer Offer, Quits Channel**
In other news, the editorial team of the long-running Georgian Public Broadcaster (GPB) show “Real Space” has declined a transfer offer to different programs and departments within GPB. The team stated that accepting this offer would imply a voluntary endorsement of the show’s closure. They expressed their disappointment at no longer being able to “bring truth to the viewers on this channel.”
This development is significant, as “Real Space” was one of the few remaining independent voices in Georgian media. Its departure from GPB is a blow to press freedom and another example of the government’s efforts to silence opposition.
**Investigation into Prisoner’s Death Dismissed as “Political Manipulation”**
The death of 46-year-old Ioseb Gorgadze after three months of treatment at the Vivamedi clinic has sparked controversy. His lawyer claims that the prisoner was severely beaten in custody and alleges abuse by prison staff. However, authorities have dismissed these allegations as “political manipulation” of a “human tragedy.”
This incident is just one example of the human cost of the government’s crackdown on dissent. The European Commission has urged the Georgian government to change its current course by ending violence against citizens, repealing repressive laws, and engaging in dialogue with political actors.
**European Commission Calls for Change**
In response to an inquiry from Euroscope, the European Commission published a written statement urging the Georgian government to change its policies. The Commission’s call is significant, as it indicates that future dialogue with the ruling Georgian Dream party may still be possible. This development offers hope for a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Georgia.
For more updates on this developing story, follow our live blog on the Georgian resistance.
