According to Iran Press, demonstrations began on December 1, 2024, following the victory of the ruling "Georgian Dream" party in the parliamentary elections.
The protests continued for a month, with participants expressing their determination to maintain pressure on the government until their demands were met.
The rally coincided with the start of the New Year, bringing together people from various walks of life who reiterated their resolve to protest against the government's stance on EU membership.
The Georgian Dream party's opposition to EU accession has fueled nightly demonstrations in Tbilisi since early December.
During the gathering, protesters waved EU and Georgian flags, celebrating their unity in the face of what they perceive as an increasingly authoritarian government. Many demonstrators brought food to share and set up a festive table adorned with Christmas lights along Tbilisi's main avenue, transforming the 34th consecutive day of protests into a New Year celebration.
Zurabishvili's term was set to end on December 29, when her successor and Georgian Dream loyalist Mikheil Kavelashvili was inaugurated as president following a controversial election process. However, Zurabishvili refused to step down, asserting that she remains the country's "only legitimate leader" until new elections are held.
The protests have seen significant police response, including tear gas and water cannons used against demonstrators. The Interior Ministry reported over 400 arrests, and human rights organizations have condemned police actions as excessive.
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