The Georgian government is advancing a legislative package to increase penalties for protest-related offenses, potentially leading to lengthy prison terms, amidst a prolonged political crisis in the South Caucasus country.
Since November, there have been nightly rallies in Georgia after the ruling Georgian Dream party announced the suspension of a longstanding national goal until 2028, sparking demonstrations met with a strong police response including numerous arrests and beatings, according to rights groups.
The proposed changes include lengthening jail sentences for minor offenses from 15 to 60 days, escalating fines and detention periods for petty hooliganism, insulting law enforcement, and other violations. Resisting, threatening, or assaulting police officers could result in a prison term of five to 10 years.
Senior Georgian Dream lawmaker Mamuka Mdinaradze disclosed the plans on Monday, attributing the need for stricter measures to counter attempts by unspecified "external forces" to destabilize the state, suggesting involvement of the U.S. embassy in supporting the protesters.
While recent protests had diminished, they intensified again on Sunday when demonstrators briefly obstructed a major highway out of the capital. Eight protesters, including former Tbilisi Mayor Giorgi Ugulava, are facing potential prison sentences of up to four years for their involvement, as per charges cited by local media.
Georgians are pressing for new elections following the disputed October vote, alleging bias in favor of Georgian Dream, which claims the election was conducted fairly.