Tbilisi, Georgia – A violent confrontation late Wednesday near Tbilisi’s Metekhi Bridge left prominent youth opposition leader Igor Narmania injured, just one day ahead of the country’s pivotal local elections.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs reported that tensions escalated when Narmania, who serves as the deputy chairman of the United National Movement (UNM) and leads its youth wing, and a group of more than ten supporters confronted two men. The altercation reportedly erupted after a dispute involving a church worker near Metekhi Church, swiftly turning physical and resulting in injuries for multiple individuals involved.
Authorities stated that most participants in the clash have been identified and that an investigation is underway, classified under Article 126 of Georgia’s criminal code, which addresses group violence. Officials emphasized that law enforcement is pursuing the investigation with urgency.
Narmania was transported to a local hospital with head injuries shortly after the incident, and a 15-year-old boy was also reported injured and admitted for treatment.
The UNM quickly dismissed the government’s portrayal of the incident, asserting that the Ministry’s account misrepresents the events. In a public statement, the party characterized the attack not as a spontaneous clash but as a calculated effort aimed at instilling fear ahead of the elections and undermining Narmania’s influence during planned protests. The UNM accused the government of attempting to frame the situation as a mere confrontation between opposing parties to divert attention from what they describe as organized violence.
This clash occurs amid rising tensions in a political landscape increasingly marked by polarization, as opposition groups, including the UNM, call for significant demonstrations on election day, which they have labeled a “peaceful revolution.” The political atmosphere remains charged as citizens prepare for local elections that hold critical implications for the country’s future.
Political analysts indicate that this incident could have ramifications for voter turnout and public sentiment heading into the elections. As citizens navigate a fraught environment, the potential for unrest looms over the electoral process, with the opposition focused on mobilizing support against the current governing dynamics.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with many citizens expressing concern over the implications of political violence on democratic processes in Georgia. As the community rallies for change, the outcome of the upcoming elections will be closely watched both locally and internationally.