The position must be voiced by a responsible business. We are not "black market operators." The intellectual segment of the country stands at these protests, the community that works every day to create a better future for the nation. This is what Valeri Chekheria stated during the special broadcast of "Business Week" on BMGtv.
The founder and CEO of Salt Projects emphasized that remaining silent now is tantamount to betrayal.
"Besides being very angry and feeling that our dignity is being attacked, I have two main reasons for being here.
First, I want to remind the business community and all our colleagues that we have a social responsibility, which is precisely what this represents. Responsible businesses must speak up and take a stand. We are not 'black market operators.'
Here, at these protests, stands the intellectual core of the country, the community that works every day to build a better future. I see countless people here who may not appear on air but are present—people who create and produce. The intellectual strength of the country.
The second reason is to motivate everyone with our presence. I hope that people who decide to raise their voices will join this studio and this platform. Silence now is equivalent to betrayal," said Chekheria on bm.ge's broadcast.
Context: Protests erupted after the ruling party, Georgian Dream, announced that they would not put the issue of opening negotiations with the European Union on the agenda until the end of 2028. Over ten days, riot police repeatedly dispersed protesters, using tear gas, pepper spray, and water cannons. Yesterday, on December 7, masked individuals attacked journalists, politicians, and activists. To date, around 400 activists have been arrested. No criminal charges have been brought against any law enforcement officers or those who attacked protest participants.