Mass protests erupt in Georgia over election results

Published October 28th, 2024 - 04:32 GMT
Mass protests in Georgia
**Caption Suggestion:** Mass protest in Tbilisi against the results of the 2024 parliamentary elections, October 28, 2024.
Highlights
The demonstrations, called for by President Salome Zurabishvili, have seen thousands of people gathering near the parliament building in Tbilisi, demanding justice for what they describe as "stolen votes."

ALBAWABA- Mass protests have erupted in Georgia following announcing the 2024 parliamentary election results, which opposition groups claim were rigged. 

The demonstrations, called for by President Salome Zurabishvili, have seen thousands of people gathering near the parliament building in Tbilisi, demanding justice for what they describe as "stolen votes." 

President Zurabishvili, known for her pro-Western stance, has openly supported the protesters, expressing dissatisfaction with the declared victory of the ruling party and calling for international support, particularly from Western countries, to pressure the government.

The protests coincided with an official visit from Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who faced a hostile reception from the demonstrators. 

Videos circulating on social media show crowds booing Orbán, who was staying at a hotel across from the protest site. His visit comes at a sensitive time, as Georgia grapples with questions about the integrity of its electoral process. 

Orbán, known for his controversial stance on EU matters, commented that Georgia needs concrete support for European integration rather than "useless lecturing."

The 2024 parliamentary elections in Georgia have sparked significant controversy, with the opposition alleging widespread irregularities and manipulation in favor of the ruling Georgian Dream party. 

The protests have brought Georgia's political tensions to the forefront, with calls for a more transparent and fair electoral process. The outcome of these events may impact Georgia's path toward European integration, a goal that remains contentious within the nation's political landscape.

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