Opposition Leader Aleksandre Elisashvili Transferred to Clinic After Arrest
By Liza Mchedlidze
Friday, December 6, 2024
Aleksandre Elisashvili, a leader of the opposition's Strong Georgia coalition, was transferred to the Vivamed clinic following his arrest on December 4. His lawyer reported that Elisashvili had been subjected to physical violence during the arrest, resulting in visible injuries.
"Serious violence was committed against Aleko Elisashvili during the arrest. He has injuries, bruises on his face, and potentially a broken rib," the lawyer stated.
Elisashvili was detained at the Courtyard Marriott hotel in Freedom Square. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, his arrest is connected to an incident involving Ali Babaev, chairman of the National Congress of Azerbaijanis in Georgia and a co-founder of the Georgian Dream of Democratic Georgia party.
Authorities allege that on December 2, near Kostava Street in Tbilisi, Elisashvili verbally and physically assaulted Babaev on political grounds. Elisashvili has been charged under Article 156, Part 2, Sub-Clause "A" of the Georgian Criminal Code, which addresses persecution related to political activities committed with violence. If convicted, he faces up to three years in prison.
The Public Defender has addressed the treatment of Elisashvili, claiming that police used excessive force during his arrest.
"The police used disproportionate force against Aleko Elisashvili during his detention. We visited him yesterday, and he has visible injuries, including bruises and scratches on his face. He also reported back injuries from the beating," stated Public Defender Ioseliani.
The Public Defender's office has notified the Special Investigation Service about the alleged mistreatment and confirmed it will monitor the ongoing investigation.
