Ombudsman’s office calls for investigation into protest dispersal, arrests

The Office of Georgia’s Public Defender on Tuesday expressed concern over potential police misconduct during the breakup of a protest on Melikishvili Avenue in Tbilisi earlier that day, emphasizing that the rally was peaceful and conformed to the standards of freedom of assembly at the time of intervention.

The Public Defender’s statement, issued following the detention of 11 demonstrators by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, highlighted possible instances of improper treatment and excessive force by law enforcement. Among those detained is journalist Sergi Baramidze, reportedly arrested while performing professional duties. The Ombudsman stressed that interfering with journalistic activities is unacceptable.

“The Public Defender notes that at the time (08:18) when the Ministry of Internal Affairs started arresting the participants of the rally on Melikishvili Avenue, the rally was peaceful and met the standards of freedom of assembly,” the statement said, urging the Ministry to ensure the protection of peaceful assembly, journalists’ rights, and proportionality in enforcement measures.

The Ombudsman urged the Special Investigation Service to “thoroughly investigate” any possible crimes against protesters or journalists and to provide updates to the public. The Ministry of Internal Affairs was also called upon to adhere to legal standards, particularly regarding the use of force and the safeguarding of press freedom.

In addition, the Public Defender’s office revealed that on November 16, its representatives visited three individuals arrested in front of the Central Election Commission building. These detainees reported cases of improper treatment, including verbal abuse by police. The Office has referred these cases to the Special Investigation Service and the General Inspection of the Ministry of Internal Affairs for further investigation.