Protesters Attempt to Storm Presidential Palace; Organizers Arrested

Tens of thousands rallied on Rustaveli Avenue and Freedom Square behind opera singer Paata Burchuladze's call for a 'peaceful revolution' and transfer of power from Bidzina Ivanishvili. That evening a crowd tried to storm Orbeliani presidential palace; riot police used water cannon, pepper spray and tear gas. Georgia's health ministry reported 21 security personnel and 6 protesters injured. Burchuladze and other organizers were arrested and charged with attempting to overthrow the government, facing up to nine years in prison.