Eight protesters, including political leaders, are facing criminal charges – a clear attempt to silence criticism and intimidate the public and opposition, said the fifth president of Georgia, Salome Zurabishvili, in a social media post, referring to a statement by the Ministry of Internal Affairs. According to the statement, the charges for the eight individuals arrested during the protest at "Tbilisi Mall" on February 2 have been changed. They are now accused of attempting to block a strategically important object, which could lead to up to 4 years in prison.

"On February 2, 31 demonstrators were arrested in Tbilisi. Now, 8 of them, including political leaders, are facing criminal charges, as an administrative offense has turned into a threat of 4 years in prison. This is a clear attempt to silence criticism and intimidate the public and opposition," wrote Zurabishvili.

At the February 2 protest at "Tbilisi Mall," the charges for eight of the arrested demonstrators were altered. The investigation now accuses them of attempting to block a strategically or specially important object.

According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the detainees face up to 4 years in prison. The investigation continues in order to identify and hold accountable others involved in blocking the roadway.