**Government Under Fire for Handling of Protests**
The government in Georgia is facing criticism from opposition leaders over its handling of protests. The leader of the “Coalition for Change,” Nugzar Tsiklauri, says that the government’s words and actions are an expression of political impotence.
Tsiklauri spoke on a recent TV show, saying that the government’s response to protests is to use violence and restrict people’s democratic rights. He pointed out that the head of the special forces, Zviad Kharaizishvili, has been accused of using obscene language and physically abusing people during protests.
Tsiklauri said that this behavior is not just a one-time incident, but rather an expression of the government’s overall approach to dealing with citizens. He noted that Kharaizishvili was recently awarded the Order of Honor by President Mikheil Kavlashvili.
**Protests Turn Violent**
Tsiklauri also spoke about a recent protest held at the “Tbilisi Mall” on February 2, which turned violent when police clashed with demonstrators. He said that this incident is an example of the hatred and savagery shown by the police towards citizens during protests.
Tsiklauri compared the government’s approach to dealing with protests to the events of April 9th, when a group led by Lebed attacked protesters. He said that the same hatred and savagery are being shown today.
**Government’s Power in Question**
The opposition leader questioned whether the “Georgian Dream” can maintain power through violence and intimidation. He quoted an author who said that you can gain power with sticks, but sitting on sticks for a long time is impossible.
Tsiklauri said that the government’s only argument seems to be using sticks, insults, and imprisonments to deal with citizens. He expressed doubt that this approach will allow the government to maintain power.
**President’s Speech in Question**
Tsiklauri also spoke about President Kavlashvili’s recent report to parliament. He said that he does not expect anything from the speech and remembers only one thing – “sincere cursing” by Kavlashvili during a session of parliament.
