Around 15,000 protesters gathered on May 5 in the Adjarian capital Batumi demanding Adjarian leader Aslan Abashidze’s resignation.

“It is the largest rally ever held in Adjara. More than 15,000 protesters are gathered outside the Batumi University and more people are joining rally,” Batumi-based correspondent of the RFE/RL Evgeni Tavdgiridze speaking from the scene by phone told Civil Georgia.

Security forces loyal to Abashidze dispersed much smaller rally on May 4 that sparked major protests later on the same day.

“It is less possible that Aslan Abashidze will use force against such a huge protest rally,” Evgeni Tavdgiridze added.