Strong Georgia Leader Saba Buadze Reports Violent Attack Near Party Headquarters
By Liza Mchedlidze
Monday, January 20, 2025
Saba Buadze, a leader of the Strong Georgia coalition, has claimed he and Ramaz Mandaria, head of the coalition's Saburtalo branch, were attacked by two armed individuals as they exited the party's headquarters on Vazha-Pshavela Avenue. Buadze shared details in a video on social media and a subsequent interview with Interpress News.
According to Buadze, the confrontation began with verbal abuse and escalated into a physical altercation. "We were met with verbal abuse by two people walking in the street, who began swearing and mentioning my name and surname. When we responded, it turned into a physical confrontation where stones were used," he said.
Buadze further described the attack, saying, "Ramaz Mandaria was hit in the face with a bag, and later one of the attackers threw a stone at him. One of them had a knife, which is also visible in the video. You can clearly hear how this person threatens me by using my last name."
The incident occurred as Buadze and Mandaria were leaving a meeting at the party headquarters. "After our meeting, the two of us went out, and these two people passed by, started swearing, and then attacked us," he said. "Ramaz has injuries on his face. The police were present but spent their time speaking with the attackers instead of taking meaningful action."
Buadze criticized law enforcement for their response, alleging bias in handling the case. "These people are caught on video, and identifying them is very easy. However, the police obviously have no interest because they are aligned with the government, which fosters and tolerates such violence," Buadze stated. He expressed skepticism about justice, saying, "I won't be surprised if these people are declared victims and we are painted as aggressors. In this country, absurdities like this happen every day."
The Ministry of Internal Affairs has confirmed that an investigation is underway under Article 126 of the Criminal Code, which pertains to violence. Buadze called on authorities to act decisively and ensure accountability for the attack.
