Former Economy Deputy Minister Denies Charges as Trial Continues in Tbilisi
By Liza Mchedlidze
Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Former Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development Romeo Mikautadze says he is innocent and is not seeking a plea deal, his lawyer said after a court hearing at the Tbilisi City Court.
"Romeo Mikautadze's position remains unchanged, he considers himself innocent," defense lawyer Beka Nemsitsveridze told journalists. "As for a plea agreement, no negotiations are currently taking place."
Nemsitsveridze said witnesses questioned so far have not confirmed the charges against Mikautadze. According to the defense, the prosecution's case is based largely on financial documents and permits, while witness testimony has failed to support the allegations.
"We saw that the questioned witnesses did not confirm the information reflected in their interrogation records," the lawyer said. "In none of the episodes do the examined witnesses confirm the charges brought against Romeo Mikautadze."
Prosecutor Irakli Marshania rejected that assessment, saying the evidence on file supports the charges and that witness testimony directly implicates the former official.
"Romeo Mikautadze's guilt is confirmed by witness testimonies, as well as by obtained information and audit reports," Marshania said. He added that the prosecution has submitted bank records, documentation from various institutions, and recordings obtained through covert investigative actions. More than 40 witnesses remain to be questioned.
Regarding a plea deal, Marshania said none of the legal conditions have been met. "The defendant has not admitted guilt, the damage has not been compensated, and no application has been submitted to the Prosecutor's Office," he said.
Mikautadze was arrested on June 20 as part of an investigation into alleged abuse of official authority and money laundering. Prosecutors accuse him of using his position as First Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development to facilitate unlawful financial schemes that caused damage to the state.
He has been charged for abuse of official authority, and large-scale money laundering committed by an official. The charges carry a potential sentence of up to 12 years in prison.
Mikautadze denies the allegations. The trial is ongoing at the Tbilisi City Court.
