“We demand fresh, fair parliamentary elections and the immediate release of all political prisoners,” declared Gedevan Popkhadze, a member of the Coalition for Change.

As Popkhadze explained, a total of five individuals have started the hunger strike.

“We are calling for new, fair parliamentary elections and the release of all political prisoners. We believe this is the only way to address the current political crisis. As time progresses, public sentiment will only intensify. People will confront each other, and we will reach such depths of resistance that overcoming it will become exceedingly difficult.

The government has crossed many red lines through its draconian laws and attempts to isolate the country, creating a political crisis that leaves little room for alternative forms of protest. I believe that a hunger strike is the most suitable form of protest that reflects this harsh reality. Last night, five of us began the strike together. Two of our fellows were ‘taken’ during the night. One was detained today, while the other was returned to us,” Popkhadze stated.