Georgian Opposition Leader Aleko Elisashvili Sentenced to 13 Years on Terrorism Charge

A Georgian court has sentenced opposition politician Aleko Elisashvili to 13 years in prison after finding him guilty on a charge of attempted terrorism. The conviction relates to an incident in November 2025 where Elisashvili attempted to set fire to a court building in the capital, Tbilisi, according to a report from the Interpress news agency.

Details of the Verdict

The Tbilisi City Court ruled that Elisashvili, a founder of the Citizens party, broke into the court's chancellery by smashing a window, poured gasoline inside, and tried to ignite it. Elisashvili had pleaded not guilty, framing his actions as a protest against what he described as a government crackdown on the opposition.

In his final address to the court, Elisashvili defended his actions as a form of protest. "I wanted to spit in the face of this government, to show that they cannot oppress us," he stated, as cited by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty’s Georgian service. It was not immediately clear if he plans to appeal the sentence.

Political Context and Implications

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The sentencing occurs against a backdrop of increasing political tension in Georgia. Critics of the government argue that the country, once a pro-Western democratic model in the post-Soviet region, has taken an authoritarian turn, particularly since the start of the war in Ukraine.

Several opposition figures are currently imprisoned. The ruling Georgian Dream party has accused opposition groups of attempting to organize violent coups and is reportedly seeking to ban a political alliance that includes Elisashvili's Citizens party. This verdict is likely to deepen the political divide and could signal further instability for investors monitoring the region.

Strained EU Relations

These domestic political developments are straining Georgia's relationship with the European Union. The nation's aspirations to join the bloc have been complicated by concerns from Brussels regarding democratic backsliding and the rule of law. High-profile cases against opposition figures are closely watched by international bodies and could impact future diplomatic and economic ties.