Member of Labor Party Arrested in Front of Parliament

Law enforcers detained Lasha Chkhartishvili, a member of the Labor Party, in front of the parliament building.

As reported by the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA), he is under administrative arrest.

"Chkhartishvili was arrested under Articles 166 and 173 of the Code of Administrative Offenses, which implies petty hooliganism and disobedience of law enforcers," the Ministry official said.

A clash occurred between activists and law enforcers in front of Parliament building today. Activists were trying to express protest in the area in front of the Parliament building, where tents were set up a few days ago, which were today removed by law enforcement officials to make way for a Christmas trading fair.

Members of the 'Change' movement expressed solidarity with street traders, who disagree with Tbilisi City Hall’s demand to change the location of their stalls in (Republic Square) to the street in front of Parliament. They claim the Agency gave them permission to have makeshift stalls in Republic Squire until January 13.

Protesters note that if Tbilisi City Hall will ignore their demand, they will continue demonstrations in the future.

They also urge citizens not to take children to the entertainment area in front of Parliament.

By Ana Dumbadze 

Related Story: Clashes Occur between Activists and Police outside Parliament