In the meantime, Parliamentary Speaker Shalva Papuashvili has threatened to crack down on the demonstrators — saying plans to create a database of these he says are “concerned in violence, unlawful actions, intimidation and blackmail or approve of such conduct.”
The database could be printed on-line to call and disgrace these accused of transgressions. Critics see it as one more transfer to discredit the federal government’s opponents.
Georgian Dream didn’t responded to repeated requests for remark.
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On Tuesday, because the Georgian parliament voted 84-30 in favor of the invoice, 1000’s gathered exterior the legislature in central Tbilisi to drown out proceedings with a refrain of whistles, vuvuzelas and banging pots and pans. Riot police dispersed the crowds with water cannon and a sonic weapon. Authorities arrested dozens, deploying teargas towards peaceable protesters, and have been accused of beating detainees.
On the fringe of the rally, a number of males in black, carrying masks, accosted journalists and bystanders, taking photos of these current in an obvious bid to intimidate them. Requested by POLITICO to establish themselves and clarify their aspect of the controversy, they remained silent and continued to {photograph} attendees.
Georgian Dream has been warned by its U.S. and EU companions that adoption of the invoice will hurt Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations.
U.S. State Division Assistant Secretary Jim O’Brien warned of potential sanctions after Tuesday’s vote.
“‘If the regulation goes ahead, out of conformity with EU norms, and there’s undermining of democracy right here, and there’s violence towards peaceable protesters, then we’ll see restrictions coming from the U.S. These are typically monetary and journey restrictions on the people liable for these actions and their households.”