Opposition leader Elisashvili criticises court during hearing in terrorism case

Opposition politician Aleko Elisashvili on Monday criticised the court during a hearing on Monday, questioning the handling of evidence and accusing authorities of ignoring allegations of abuse.

Addressing a police witness during the proceedings, Elisashvili argued that crimes involving torture do not expire under statutes of limitation and said those responsible could still face accountability years later.

"Is this a 19th-century court?" he said. "What kind of country are you building? Doesn't this make you uncomfortable?"

Elisashvili also questioned why video recordings that he says are relevant to the case had not been presented in court, arguing that such evidence should be examined before any verdict is reached.

The politician was arrested on 29 November 2025 and faces charges including the attempted commission of a terrorist act.

According to investigators, Elisashvili attempted to set fire to the administrative offices of the Tbilisi City Court, assaulted a court bailiff and resisted officials during his detention while allegedly attempting to seize a weapon.

Elisashvili denies wrongdoing. If convicted, he faces a prison sentence of between 10 and 15 years.