Story
Georgian Opposition Politician Aleko Elisashvili Sentenced to 13 Years on Terrorism Charge
Georgian opposition politician Aleko Elisashvili was sentenced to 13 years in prison on Friday after being convicted on charges of attempted terrorism, the Interpress news agency reported. The verdict adds to a tense political climate in the aspiring European Union member state.
Details of the Conviction
The Tbilisi City Court found Elisashvili, a founder of the Citizens party, guilty of attempting to set fire to the court's chancellery building in November 2025. According to the court's findings, he broke a window with a hammer, poured gasoline inside the premises, and attempted to ignite it.
Elisashvili had pleaded not guilty to the charges. He maintained his actions were a form of protest against what he described as a government crackdown on the opposition. "I wanted to spit in the face of this government, to show that they cannot oppress us," he said in his final address to the court, as cited by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty’s Georgian service.
AdPolitical Context and Investor Concerns
The sentencing occurs against a backdrop of increasing political tension and accusations of authoritarianism leveled against the ruling Georgian Dream party. Critics, both domestic and international, have raised alarms over democratic backsliding, particularly since the start of the war in Ukraine.
This event is the latest in a series of moves against political opponents, with several opposition figures already imprisoned. The verdict could further strain Georgia's relationship with the European Union, which has expressed concerns over the country's political trajectory and rule of law. For investors, such developments heighten perceived political risk, potentially impacting foreign direct investment and the country's overall economic stability.