**European MEPs Condemn Ongoing Repression in Georgia**
Prominent Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have strongly condemned the ongoing repression in Georgia. In a joint statement, they called on the European Union to impose targeted sanctions against Bidzina Ivanishvili and all Georgian Dream leaders responsible for reported election irregularities and the violent crackdown on peaceful demonstrators.
The MEPs, including Chair of the Committee on Foreign Affairs David McAllister, singled out Bidzina Ivanishvili as being “ultimately politically responsible for the wave of repressions and the suspension of the European integration process.”
**Violent Crackdown on Protesters**
Arrests and searches of offices are part of the toolbox of authoritarian regimes, said the MEPs. They emphasized that the Georgian Dream is directly responsible for the continuous democratic backsliding and the dramatic shift of the country away from its European path.
The statement highlighted the ongoing protests across the country as a legitimate expression of concern about Georgia’s future under current leadership. The MEPs called for new elections, conducted by an independent and impartial election administration, observed thoroughly by international bodies to ensure fairness and transparency.
**Support for President Zurabishvili**
The MEPs reiterate their strong support for President Salome Zurabishvili, recognizing her as the “steadfast defender of democracy and European integration for Georgia.” They reaffirmed their ongoing solidarity with the Georgian people and their aspirations to join the EU.
**Escalating Repression**
The protests in Tbilisi and various regions of Georgia were sparked by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze‘s announcement to suspend the EU integration process until 2028. This led to violent dispersals of peaceful demonstrators, who faced physical assaults, verbal abuse, and illegal detentions.
On December 4, the ruling party escalated its repressive tactics by sending police to raid the homes and offices of opposition figures and activists.
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