Prison service rejects claims of deterioration in opposition leader Khoshtaria's health

Georgia's Special Penitentiary Service has rejected claims that opposition politician Elene Khoshtaria's health has worsened in prison, describing recent statements by her lawyer as misinformation.

In a statement on Wednesday, the service said most of Khoshtaria's medical diagnoses had been established before she entered the penitentiary system and were chronic conditions characterised by periodic flare-ups.

Authorities said she has access to all necessary medical services and that there has been no deterioration in her health condition.

According to the penitentiary service, Khoshtaria has been examined by a range of specialists, including cardiologists, neurologists, ophthalmologists, gynaecologists, psychiatrists and rheumatologists. She has also undergone multiple medical tests, including MRI scans of the spine and spinal cord.

The service said her latest rheumatology consultation took place on 5 June, after which additional examinations were conducted and treatment was prescribed in line with medical guidelines and protocols. Officials also stated that Khoshtaria declined a follow-up consultation with a rheumatologist, while another appointment was scheduled for 17 June.

The statement further said neither Khoshtaria nor her legal representatives had previously submitted requests for additional medical examinations or treatment. It added that prison authorities had responded to a recent inquiry from her lawyer and remained ready to hold further meetings if required.

The response follows claims by Khoshtaria's lawyer, Shota Tutberidze, who said earlier that his client had experienced severe joint pain, mobility problems and worsening health while in custody.