The Georgian opposition figure, Elene Khoshtaria, received a sentence deemed “political revenge” by international observers. Following a court verdict concerning vandalism of election banners, legal bodies and the ALDE party assert the sentencing is a politically motivated action. The European Parliament adopted a resolution demanding the immediate release of all detained for political reasons, highlighting concerns about “political prisoners, persecution, and Russian and Iranian influence” within Georgia.
Elene Khoshtaria, leader of the Droa party, was given an 18-month prison sentence for writing “Russian Dream” on a Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze campaign poster. Tamar Oniani, from the Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association, criticized the sentence, arguing it exemplifies the judiciary’s use as a tool for political retribution. She questioned the justification for a custodial sentence when a fine was a viable alternative under the Criminal Code.
Tamta Mikeladze, director of the Social Justice Centre, described the sentence as outrageous and immoral, citing Article 187 of the Criminal Code, which relates to property damage. She emphasized that liability for damaging a campaign banner is regulated by the Election Code, rendering criminal charges unjustified. Mikeladze stressed the importance of using criminal law as a last resort, particularly when considering freedom of expression and the minor nature of the act.
The situation is further complicated by the perceived politicization of the legal system, with concerns about judicial bias and the use of criminal law to target political figures. The decision’s impact on Elene Khoshtaria’s health and well-being, particularly given her sacrifices in the face of the Georgian Dream government, has drawn widespread condemnation. The ALDE party strongly condemned the sentence, calling for her immediate release and the cessation of politically motivated charges, advocating for targeted sanctions.
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