**Protest Leaders Should Be on the Front Line, Not in Prison**
As the protest movement against the Georgian government reaches a critical point, a key figure has made a passionate plea for leaders to be free and fighting alongside the people. Paata Manjgaladze, a member of Strategy Aghmashenebeli, says that the focus should shift from adding more prisoners to mobilizing the existing force.
In an interview, Manjgaladze expressed his deepest respect for those who have chosen imprisonment over paying bail. This, he said, is a “morally strong and dignified act.” However, with the protest entering a decisive phase, he believes that key figures like Giorgi Vashadze, Nika Gvaramia, Nika Melia, and Zura Japaridze should be on the front line, not in prison.
**The Regime’s Strategy: Isolating Leaders**
Manjgaladze accused the regime of trying to isolate leaders and turn the protest into a “headless resistance.” He pointed out that autocracies are often brought down by societies united around a common goal, rather than through prisons. In both Belarus and Russia, prisons have not strengthened protests, but instead weakened them.
**A Call for Unity and Strength**
The government already has enough political prisoners, Manjgaladze argued. What’s needed now is greater unity and strength among the people. He called on leaders to join forces with the protesters, rather than being locked away in prison cells.
“We need leaders together not in prison, but on the front line of the struggle – alongside the people!” he exclaimed.
**A New Approach**
Manjgaladze’s message is clear: it’s time for a new approach. Instead of adding more prisoners to the tally, the focus should be on mobilizing the existing force and organizing powerful resistance. This, he believes, will ultimately bring about change and bring down the current regime.
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