We would like to respond to the information spread by the media regarding the administrative fines imposed against participants of the recent gathering/demonstration, reads the statement, issued by the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

"For the purpose of providing the public with additional information, we would like to clarify that according to the Law of Georgia "On Assemblies and Manifestations", it is prohibited to artificially block the traffic roadway, unless the number of participants of the assembly or manifestation requires it. Violation of the above-mentioned obligation is defined as a misdemeanor under Article 174 (1) of the Code of Administrative Offenses and provides for a fine in the amount of 5,000 GEL or administrative imprisonment for a term of up to 15 days.

Recently, the public has clearly witnessed that participants in the ongoing rally/demonstration in front of the Georgian Parliament are deliberately and artificially blocking Rustaveli Avenue, even though the number of participants of the gathering does not require the mentioned action.

Employees of the Ministry of Internal Affairs are constantly identifying the above-mentioned violators and imposing fines under Article 174 of the Code of Administrative Offenses.

It should be additionally noted that each violator is informed that if he/she disagrees with the fine, they have the right to appeal the decision in accordance with the procedure established by the legislation of Georgia and present the evidence at his/her disposal.

Within the framework of reviewing the complaint, the Ministry of Internal Affairs will ensure an additional, detailed examination of all factual circumstances of the case and the adoption of an appropriate decision on the complaint".