Euromaidan Solidarity Rally, Tbilisi, Georgia © Onnik James Krikorian 2013
Last night saw another rally in Tbilisi, Georgia, in support of Euromaidan protestors in Ukraine. Unlike last week’s rallies, which were definitely more grassroots, the latest rally appeared more organised and of interest to local media, probably because of the involvement of Tbilisi’s Mayor and plans to illuminate a prominent building on the city’s central Freedom Square in the colours of the Ukrainian flag.
Of course, it being Georgia, there had to be some kind of controversy and as usual, parliament seemed to provide that. It also made the international news headlines.
Deputies from majority and opposition parties fought at the plenary session of the Georgian parliament over plans to encourage supporters of Ukraine’s European integration.
Video footage taken inside the parliament shows government officials throwing documents in the air and brawling with one another following the opposition’s suggestions.
Deputy Giorgi Baramidze wanted to encourage supporters of Ukraine’s European integration with a special resolution.
Mr Baramidze also condemned violence inflicted on participants of peaceful rallies in Kyiv.
No one was seriously injured in the incident, but opposition representatives have demanded a public apology from the parliamentary majority before they will participate in any more plenary meetings.
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