Lawyer rejects domestic violence charges against former MP Kurtanidze, seeks bail over detention

The lawyer representing Luka Kurtanidze, the former Georgian Dream MP and ex-president of the Wrestling Federation of Georgia, has rejected the domestic violence charges filed against his client and expressed hope that pre-trial detention would be avoided.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, defence attorney Ivane Meparishvili said the legal team did not accept the charges and was prepared to post bail if necessary.

“We do not agree with the charges and will work to ensure that Luka Kurtanidze remains free without preventive measures. Alternatively, we are ready to offer bail,” Meparishvili said. “We also hope that the Prosecutor’s Office will submit a motion for bail instead of requesting detention.”

He further alleged that Kurtanidze was a victim of provocation. “Luka is the target of a major provocation by certain forces in the country who are seeking to destabilise society and stir unrest,” he added.

Kurtanidze has been charged with domestic violence, intentional damage to a family member’s property, and violating the terms of a restraining order issued by the court to protect his former spouse. The charges stem from an incident in Kobuleti on 25 July and could carry a prison sentence of up to five years if he is found guilty.