The georgia prosecutor’s office has formally charged the former defence minister, Bacho Akhalaia, with inciting the violent overthrow of the government and disrupting georgia’s constitutional order. This case stems from an open hearing at Tbilisi City Court on February 16, 2026, where Akhalaia publicly demanded the removal of Bidzina Ivanishvili, georgia’s informal leader. Prosecutors assert that Akhalaia’s statement represents a criminal offense, specifically under Article 317 of georgia’s criminal code, carrying a potential prison sentence of up to three years.
The charge revolves around the phrase “Ivanishvili must be overthrown,” uttered during the court proceedings. Following the incident, the State Security Service initiated an investigation, spurred by a video recording of Akhalaia’s declaration. This recording, shared by the former minister’s wife, Ana Nadareishvili, amplified the gravity of the situation.
Akhalaia’s recorded remarks expressed a fervent belief that Ivanishvili should be removed by any means necessary, including force. He further stated intentions to dismantle “Russia’s tentacles” within georgia, viewing this as the sole path to resolving a situation he describes as a “hell” endured for over 200 years. He repeatedly affirmed his determination to overthrow Ivanishvili.
The government contends that Western influence is fueling a coup attempt. The arrest of the former defence minister, following the October 4, 2025 anti-government rally, highlights ongoing repressions within georgia.
Topics: #georgia #former #defence
Prosecutors are alleging that the previous Georgian defense minister, Bacho Akhalaia, attempted to instigate a violent coup and undermine Georgia’s established legal framework. This legal action origi
Prosecutors are alleging that the previous Georgian defense minister, Bacho Akhalaia, attempted to instigate a violent coup and undermine Georgia’s established legal framework. This legal action origi