Opposition leaders Mamuka Khazaradze and Badri Japaridze detained following court ruling in Tbilisi

Opposition leaders of coalition Lelo-Strong Georgia Mamuka Khazaradze and Badri Japaridze were detained directly at their party’s headquarters, where they were present with fellow members on Monday.

The detention followed the decision of Tbilisi City Court which sentenced both opposition leaders to eight months in prison, citing their refusal to appear before a parliamentary investigative commission. The commission, created by the ruling Georgian Dream party, is tasked with examining alleged crimes committed during the rule of the United National Movement (2003–2012).

The ruling was issued on June 23 by Judge Zviad Sharadze. Both have also been barred from holding public office for two years following their prison terms. Their cases were reviewed independently by the court.

Police forces, including units transported by buses, were heavily deployed around the Lelo office during the arrest. Supporters gathered outside chanted slogans such as “To the end!” and “Burn the oligarchy!” in defiance.

On the same day, Zurab Japaridze, leader of the Coalition for Change, was also sentenced to seven months in prison on similar grounds for contempt of the same commission.