Opposition figures are in prison for breaking law, PM

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Thursday defended the imprisonment of several opposition politicians for their refusal to participate in the parliament’s investigating commission probing alleged crimes under the previous United National Movement government, insisting they had been jailed “not for their political views but for committing a criminal offence” by refusing to comply with the investigation.

“There are criminals in prison. They committed a specific crime when they did not appear before the investigative commission,” Kobakhidze told reporters. “According to the legislation of all countries, there are response measures in this regard. They are punished under criminal law, and a similar rule applies in our country.”

The PM also stressed the legal process had followed “due procedure,” and the detentions “were not politically motivated.”

“Naturally, in accordance with the legislation, the relevant agencies had an appropriate response,” he said. “These individuals committed a crime and are in a penitentiary institution because of that crime.”

Several prominent Georgian opposition figures have been arrested and sentenced for refusing to testify before the commission over the past several months. 

The commission, established by the ruling Georgian Dream party, has been criticized by opposition leaders and human rights organizations as a politically motivated tool to suppress dissent.

Zurab Japaridze, leader of the opposition party Girchi - More Freedom,  was arrested on May 22, 2025, for failing to appear before the commission. He has been sentenced to seven months in prison for non-compliance. 

Giorgi Vashadze, leader of the Strategy Agmashenebeli, was sentenced to seven months in prison on June 24, 2025, for refusing to cooperate with the commission. He also faces a two-year ban on holding public office. 

Badri Japaridze and Mamuka Khazaradze, leaders of the Strong Georgia bloc, both were sentenced to eight months in prison on June 23, 2025, for not attending the commission hearings.

Nika Melia, leader of the Coalition for Change, was sentenced to eight months in prison on June 23, 2025, for defying the commission's summons.

Nika Gvaramia, leader of the Ahali party, was sentenced to seven months in prison on June 13, 2025, for refusing to testify before the commission.

Irakli Okruashvili, former defense minister under the UNM and current opposition figure, was arrested on May 14, 2025, for failing to pay bail after refusing to appear before the commission.