"Freedom for Japhara! Freedom for political prisoners! Fight to the end!" – writes Mamuka Khazaradze, leader of Lelo – For a Strong Georgia, on social media.

According to Khazaradze, Zurab Japaridze is a symbol of justice:

“Zura is a symbol of justice and friendship for me!

He has my full support in his fight against the Russian regime – a fight that will undoubtedly end in victory!

Freedom for Japhara! Freedom for political prisoners! Fight to the end!”

For context, Zurab “Girchi” Japaridze, a member of the Coalition for Change, had his previously imposed 20,000 GEL bail replaced with pre-trial detention.

This decision was made by Judge Irakli Shvangiradze of Tbilisi City Court, granting the prosecution's motion.

Japaridze was handcuffed inside the courtroom after the ruling.