Tbilisi law enforcement agencies apprehended at least sixteen individuals during a demonstration opposing a contentious parliamentary committee.

In the heart of Tbilisi, Georgia's capital city, demonstrations erupted on Tuesday as protesters voiced their discontent over a parliamentary commission's report on the August 2008 War.

The commission, established by the ruling Georgian Dream party in February, was chaired by Nino Lomjaria and was composed of members from Georgian Dream and its satellite party, People's Power. The commission's mandate was initially limited to the United National Movement's (UNM) years in power (2003-2012), but it was later expanded to cover the period up to the present day.

The commission's report, spanning 471 pages, was presented by Tsulukiani on Tuesday, placing blame on the UNM party for the August 2008 War. However, this assertion has sparked controversy, with critics arguing that this rhetoric downplays Russia's responsibility for the conflict.

Family members of fallen soldiers of the Georgian Army, as well as some current and former military personnel, have joined the criticism. They contend that the report's findings are misleading and do not accurately reflect the events that led to the war.

The parliamentary commission's work and other parliamentary activities have been carried out by Georgian Dream amid an opposition boycott of parliament. Several opposition politicians boycotted the commission and did not appear despite being summoned, leading to their prosecution and months-long pretrial detention.

In response to these events, protesters gathered in central Tbilisi, initially at the rear entrance of parliament during a plenary session. As the day progressed, they marched onto Rustaveli Avenue, where police began making detentions. At least 16 people were detained by the Georgian police during the protest. Videos show police detaining protesters at various points along Rustaveli Avenue.

Later, the protesters moved to the entrance used by ruling party lawmakers, shouting at them as they departed. This escalation has further fuelled tensions between the opposition and the ruling party.

It is important to note that the Caucasus region is undergoing significant changes, and independent journalism in the region is facing threats. In response to these threats, a newsroom is being built, powered by readers, to provide unbiased and accurate news coverage.

This newsroom, along with the ongoing protests, underscores the importance of a free and fair press in a democratic society. As the situation in Tbilisi continues to unfold, it is crucial that all voices are heard and that the truth is upheld.

Tbilisi law enforcement agencies apprehended at least sixteen individuals during a demonstration opposing a contentious parliamentary committee.