Beka Tsikarishvili, the leader of the White Noise Movement, told reporters on May 15, after his meeting at the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia, that the MIA will not take political responsibility for the possible excessive force used at the raids.

"I am not satisfied with today's meeting, since the Ministry does not take political responsibility for the misconduct of the law enforcers, and told us to present evidence in case there were such facts. Naturally, we have it and will give them to the Chief Prosecutor's Office and General Inspection, which should study these issues. Also, we demand the Minister of Health be involved in the discussion over the drug policy," Tsikarishvili said.

This came despite Georgia’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Giorgi Gakharia, apologiing to protesters for the armed police raids of nightclubs Bassiani and Café Gallery that took place on Saturday.

“I also promise that we will achieve specific results in the direction of the drug policy. And if promises are not kept, we will always be able to dance or listen to music in a free city,” said Gakharia on May 14.

Tsikarishvili noted that there is no reason for suspension of negotiations so far, therefore, resumption of protests will be decided after talks are held for a new drug policy and the issue has been resolved.

By Shawn Wayne

Protesters End Rally, Give Gov’t One Week to Discuss New Drug Policy