“We know that people see our truth, our efforts, and our determination to protect, preserve, and strengthen the achievements of previous generations. Today is April 9—a day of pain and joy,” stated Shalva Papuashvili, Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia, on social media.

As Papuashvili points out, we can no longer afford failure; we do not have the right to weakness or complacency.

“On April 9, 1991, Georgia’s state independence was restored. The national movement of that time connected May 26 of the First Republic to this pivotal day in our struggle to create a new independent republic.

The victims of April 9, 1989, represent a profound tragedy, marked by the death, mutilation, and terror endured by dozens of innocent people. This is why Zviad Gamsakhurdia chose this day to immortalize the struggle for our state and the national movement. This is our shared history, one that cannot be altered or erased.

All the pain and joy we’ve experienced—every defeat and victory, every misstep and correct decision, every moment of wisdom and foolishness—has led us to this day. In a world rife with turmoil, we must reflect on who we are, what we were yesterday, and where we are headed.

The state of Georgia, its independence and sovereignty, its cultural originality, and its unique identity are the focus of our care.

Many voice this belief, but their actions often convey the opposite. Wisdom, intelligence, patience, and courage are not gifts bestowed on everyone. Therefore, the struggle for our state—both internal and external—continues unabated.

The path that is right and just will be determined by the Georgian people through direct democracy. The elected government is obliged to honour the mandate given to it and to fully acknowledge its responsibility to the past, present, and future.

We can no longer afford failure; we do not have the right to weakness or complacency.

Every step we take is aimed at strengthening the state and unifying society. Through open discussion, we aspire to clarify for every citizen where the truth lies and where hypocrisy dwells. We know that people see our truth, our efforts, and our determination to protect, preserve, and strengthen the achievements of previous generations.

Today is April 9—a day of pain and joy. Today marks the restoration of Georgia’s independence,” Papuashvili concludes.