Protesters Storm Presidential Palace in Tbilisi Amid Widespread Clashes

Georgia Protesters Try to Storm Presidential Palace Tens of thousands of anti-government protesters clashed with security forces outside the presidential palace in Tbilisi on Saturday, as they attempted to storm the building. Police used water cannons and pepper spray to disperse the demonstrators. According to eyewitnesses, the protest began peacefully, with marchers waving Georgian and EU flags through central Tbilisi. However, tensions escalated when protesters tried to breach the palace gates, prompting a confrontation with police. "We are fighting for democracy in Georgia," said Paata Burchuladze, an opera singer and one of the protest organizers. "We demand that the leaders of the Georgian Dream party be arrested and held accountable for their actions." The opposition has been boycotting local elections, which were held on the same day as the protest, due to a government crackdown on dissent. The ruling Georgian Dream party claimed victory in last year's parliamentary election, but the pro-European Union opposition alleges that the vote was stolen. "This is not just about the elections," said Nino Burjanadze, a former president of Georgia and leader of the opposition. "This is about the future of our country. We will continue to fight for democracy and human rights in Georgia." The government has paused talks on joining the EU since the parliamentary election, fueling concerns that it is trying to consolidate power. Security forces have been deployed around the palace, with police and soldiers standing guard at key intersections. The situation remains tense, but there are no reports of serious injuries or fatalities. As the protest continues, the opposition has vowed to keep up pressure on the government until their demands are met. "We will not back down," said Burchuladze. "We will continue to fight for democracy and human rights in Georgia." Background: Georgia's parliamentary election last year was marred by allegations of vote-rigging and intimidation, leading to widespread protests and calls for reform. The opposition has accused the ruling Georgian Dream party of trying to consolidate power and undermine democratic institutions. The EU has expressed concerns about the situation in Georgia, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen calling on the government to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms. Additional Perspectives: The government has defended its actions, saying that it is committed to democracy and stability. "We will not be intimidated by protests or boycotts," said a spokesperson for the Georgian Dream party. "We will continue to work towards the development of our country." As the situation in Georgia continues to unfold, international observers are watching closely. The OSCE has deployed monitors to observe the local elections, while the EU is considering further action to support democratic reforms. Next Developments: The opposition plans to hold a rally on Sunday, with thousands expected to gather in central Tbilisi. The government has vowed to maintain order and protect public safety, but the situation remains tense and unpredictable. *Reporting by Bbc.*