A protest rally is taking place on Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi.

Participants are chanting “Freedom for the regime’s prisoners” and are also demanding an international investigation into the BBC investigative report regarding what substance was allegedly used against protesters during the November–December 2024 demonstrations.

They are holding a banner reading: “The regime is poisoning us - we demand an international investigation.”

Some protesters initially gathered near the Tbilisi State University building and then joined those assembled near the Philharmonic Hall by marching together. At this moment, demonstrators are moving along Melikishvili Avenue toward Rustaveli Avenue, in the direction of the Parliament building.

Protesters have appealed to law enforcement to allow the rally to take place. They are currently moving along the bus lane and the sidewalk.

“We appeal to the police - given the large number of people, allow us to hold the rally in the traditional way we usually do. We also note that on New Year’s Eve we traditionally gather on Rustaveli Avenue.

This will be a protest-celebratory gathering. A stage will be set up in front of the First Gymnasium, and musical performances will be held. We will ask everyone to come with food and wish for the end of ‘qotsianoba’ - ‘fire to oligarchy,’” the protesters said.