“There is a very simple plan: we should be as many as we have never been before. The regime must also understand that there is no point in resorting to violence or artificially clinging to power through force,” said Irakli Pavlenishvili, Deputy Secretary General of the United National Movement, speaking about the rally scheduled for October 4.

“Ivanishvili’s regime is inherently violent; we should gather in such numbers that they dare not use violence. The plans of the Georgian people have always been peaceful. The only one developing a violent scenario is Ivanishvili, acting on Russia’s instructions,” Pavlenishvili added.

Responding to a question of whether their party is ready to take responsibility or leave activists to face the situation, Pavlenishvili stated that the United National Movement is always at the forefront.

“Among us are Levan Khabeishvili, some of my friends, and myself. There is ample video evidence of this; we have never hidden it and will continue to be transparent. We will never stand behind anyone. Regarding specific expectations and accountability, it’s simple: this is a national struggle, and we all agree that dismantling Ivanishvili’s regime through street protests is inevitable. We all share responsibility. No one shirks it. This is another false propaganda, which the Georgian people will see through, that neither politicians nor activists avoid responsibility,” Pavlenishvili asserted.

When asked, “You say the revolution will be peaceful, yet the state institutions are being set on fire, and photos are circulating in groups indicating similar intentions,” Pavlenishvili responded:

“What are you talking about? Which groups are involved, and who is orchestrating this? We all know that the protests in Georgia are unprecedentedly peaceful. Ivanishvili has dared so many things; he violated numerous constitutional principles, insulted our national dignity countless times, yet, under these circumstances, the protests have always remained peaceful.

Therefore, we expect them to continue peacefully, as they always have. As for the government, we remember the suffering inflicted on the people by those in power. We have brought a banner of Levan Khabeishvili, a man who was beaten to death. If you are talking about violence, you should direct it towards the Georgian Dream, not towards the peaceful Georgian people.”

According to Pavlenishvili, the organiser of the October rally is Paata Burchuladze and Rustaveli Avenue, but everyone bears responsibility.

“While the organiser is Paata Burchuladze and Rustaveli Avenue, and the society as a whole, when it comes to accountability, we are all responsible for what is unfolding in this national protest. The sole actors resorting to violence and committing crimes are Ivanishvili and his gang. They are torturing and kidnapping people.

We are protesting peacefully, demanding that power be returned to the people. We accept responsibility for this. Has anyone ever intended or planned to do anything illegal or violent? No. That is why we uphold our commitment to peace. Let those who resort to violence take responsibility for their actions,” Pavlenishvili stated.