"We did not comply with the 'Russian law,' and no matter how much the 'Georgian Dream' tries to label us as enemies or agents of this country, we will not comply with any of it! We only serve Georgia, and we will not tolerate this!" This was stated by Nino Dolidze, the chairwoman of the "Fair Elections and International Democracy Society," while commenting on the Georgian government's plans to adopt a law similar to the US "FARA" law, during her appearance on the "PalitraNews" program "Daily Newsroom."

She further explained that civil society poses a threat to the "Georgian Dream" because it speaks the truth.

"The 'Georgian Dream' has been trying for years to pass laws that limit freedom in the country. The initiation of the 'Russian law' was one such step, as were other laws, such as the ones passed around the New Year. Whether it’s 'FARA' or a law against the media, which we haven’t seen yet, this is all part of a broader agenda against free speech, freedom of assembly, freedom of expression, and the right to protest or voice dissent in this country. The goal of the 'Georgian Dream' is to limit and consolidate authoritarianism.

You know we did not comply with the 'Russian law,' and we will not label ourselves as agents. We only serve Georgia. So, no matter what attempts the 'Georgian Dream' makes to label us as enemies or agents of the country, we will not comply with any of it. We only obey our country. These repressive mechanisms and intimidation tactics will not break us. We know very well what kind of battle we are in – we are in the battle to save our country. There is no turning back. They try to mislead their supporters or the public with conspiracy theories and information manipulation, suggesting that civil society is planning something. The public can clearly see what we are doing. Civil society defends citizens fined on the streets, exposes corruption, and defends elections. We are a threat to the 'Georgian Dream' because we speak the truth," said Nino Dolidze.

Furthermore, she commented on the fines imposed on protesters and recent attacks, saying that different mechanisms are being used to suppress the protest momentum.

"Actions taken against demonstrators and protesters using 'titushki' (paid thugs) and attackers are aimed at intimidation. This is done to prevent citizens from coming out. These mechanisms are being used against protesters to suppress the protest momentum. Moreover, this points to a more dangerous precedent: a double standard exists within investigative agencies. We see how loyal and tolerant the 'Georgian Dream' regime is toward those who are carrying out their political agenda, even when they act violently. But when it comes to demonstrators blocking roads, they are extremely harsh. This means that if someone follows the 'Georgian Dream's' political agenda, everything is possible for them, even violent attacks. Those who protest against the 'Georgian Dream'—even peacefully—face every form of repressive mechanism.

The 'Georgian Dream' is essentially telling the public that if you are against them, they will do everything in their power to punish you. Isn’t it absurd to fine someone 5,000 lari for blocking a road? But when it comes to actual criminal acts, like beating people with sticks, we see a much more lenient approach. This isn’t the standard Georgia aspired to for so long. It is a huge step backward for the development of the country, reminding us of the 90s.

Such large fines for blocking roads are absolutely unacceptable. It’s a financial mechanism to break the spirit of the protesters. It is physically impossible for people to pay these fines, especially when the minimum wage is much lower. The middle class would also find it utterly disproportionate to pay this amount. The goal is to break people. Fortunately, there are funds to help with this. No one should be left to face such large fines. Our recommendation to these individuals is to appeal. This appeal will delay the process and put considerable administrative pressure on the 'Georgian Dream,'" said Nino Dolidze.