Georgian President says April 9 highlights need for unity to defend freedom

Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili on Thursday said the legacy of the April 9 tragedy continues to underscore the importance of unity in safeguarding the country’s freedom and sovereignty.

In a statement shared on social media, Kavelashvili described 9 April 1989 as one of the most significant dates in Georgia’s recent history — “a day of both immense tragedy and great victory” that marked a turning point in the nation’s struggle for independence.

He said the events on Rustaveli Avenue in the country’s capital city of Tbilisi demonstrated to the world that dignity and freedom are values held above life itself by the Georgian people.

“The tragic events of that night could not silence the voice of a nation demanding independence,” he said, adding that the date has become a symbol of national unity and resilience.

Kavelashvili noted that the events of April 9 ultimately led to the restoration of Georgia’s independence on 9 April 1991.

He stressed that the anniversary serves as a reminder that protecting freedom and state sovereignty still requires “firm unity, a strong sense of responsibility and a continuous struggle for a better future”.

“The worthy continuation of this path is the duty of every Georgian,” he added, concluding with a message of gratitude and support for an independent Georgia.