Lasha Gabitashvili: I am free – the judicial system of the United Arab Emirates was fair, effective, and independent. I am glad that the incident occurred in a free and responsible country
The judicial system of the United Arab Emirates was fair, effective, and independent. I am glad that this incident occurred in a free and responsible country," reads a statement by Lasha Gabitashvili, who was physically confronted in Abu Dhabi by Georgian Dream MPs Irakli Zarqua, Viqtor Sanikidze, and Gela Samkharauli.
In his statement, Gabitashvili noted that he would answer questions later, once the case is closed.
"Friends, I am free! Many thanks to the Georgian people for their support and love during these days. The judicial system of the United Arab Emirates was fair, effective, and independent. I am glad that this incident occurred in a free and responsible country. I eagerly look forward to returning to Georgia, which deserves free thinkers and responsible leaders. A special thanks to my family, old and new friends, and Olga, who is my personal hero!
I will be able to answer questions later when the case is concluded," Gabitashvili wrote in a letter shared by his wife.
Earlier today, Radio Liberty reported that members of Georgian Dream, including Viktor Sanikidze and Irakli Zarqua, were also released from police custody.
According to Radio Liberty, both Gabitashvili and the Georgian Dream MPs have been questioned by police since January 14 and will remain free until the court hearing, which is expected to take place in about a week. Until then, they are prohibited from leaving the UAE.
It should be recalled that on January 13, Georgian Dream MPs Irakli Zarqua, Viqtor Sanikidze, and Gela Samkharauli physically confronted citizen Lasha Gabitashvili in Abu Dhabi. Video footage of the incident was circulated on social media.
The confrontation occurred in a hotel dining area. The footage shows Irakli Zarqua throwing food at Lasha Gabitashvili during a meal and physically confronting him, after which Viqtor Sanikidze joined the altercation.
Later, Lasha Gabitashvili released a video statement explaining that the incident was linked to a previous event where he referred to Irakli Zarqua and Viqtor Sanikidze as "Russian slaves." During the initial confrontation, both parties reportedly exchanged verbal insults.
