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 convicting him on a charge of attempted terrorism. The verdict, reported by the Interpress news agency, adds to the escalating political tensions in the nation, which is an aspiring European Union member.

Details of the Conviction

The court found Elisashvili, a founder of the Citizens party, guilty of attempting to set fire to the Tbilisi City Court’s chancellery building in November 2025. According to the court's findings, he broke a window with a hammer, poured gasoline inside the building, and then attempted to ignite it.

Elisashvili, who pleaded not guilty, maintained that his actions were a form of protest against a government crackdown on the opposition. In his final address to the court, he defended his actions, stating, "I wanted to spit in the face of this government, to show that they cannot oppress us," as cited by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty’s Georgian service.

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Political Tensions and EU Relations

The sentencing occurs against a backdrop of increasing political polarization in Georgia. Government critics argue that the country, once seen as a pro-Western democracy, has become more authoritarian. Several other opposition figures are currently imprisoned.

The ruling Georgian Dream party has accused the opposition of attempting to organize violent coups and is pursuing a ban on a political grouping that includes Elisashvili's party. These developments have strained Georgia's relationship with the European Union, raising concerns about the country's commitment to democratic principles as it seeks membership in the bloc.