Turmoil in Tbilisi: Opposition Leader's Arrest Heats Up Protest Movement

Georgian authorities have detained opposition leader Aleksandre Elisashvili on charges related to an attempted arson at the Tbilisi City Court. The arrest comes amid ongoing protests against the government's decision to halt EU membership talks. Political tensions intensify as the ruling party aims to curb dissent.

Authorities in Georgia apprehended an opposition leader recently linked to an alleged arson attempt on the Tbilisi City Court, according to a statement from the Interior Ministry. Aleksandre Elisashvili, founder of the Citizens party, reportedly broke into the court office, vandalized property, and attempted to set it ablaze.

Footage disseminated by officials depicted a firearm, gasoline, lighter, and broken glass at the scene. Meanwhile, critics argue that mounting government pressure on opposition parties is politically driven.

Backdrop to these events are the persisting protests against the government's strategy to withdraw from EU accession talks. The demonstration on Rustaveli Avenue underscored ongoing discontent as it marked a year of uninterrupted protests.

(With inputs from agencies.)