TBILISI, Georgia (AP) — Georgia’s ruling party claimed victory in every municipality across the South Caucasus country in a local election that was boycotted by the two main opposition blocs as a sham.

Tens of thousands poured into the capital, Tbilisi, hours earlier on Saturday to march against the government’s monthslong crackdown on dissent, and what they see as Georgia’s steady drift into Moscow’s orbit.

Riot police used water cannons and tear gas to drive protesters out of the presidential palace, after they smashed the gates and attempted to enter the building.

Five activists, including celebrated opera singer Paata Burchuladze, were detained following the rally. According to Georgia’s Interior Ministry, they were accused of calling for a violent overthrow of the government as wel

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