The Prosecutor's Office of Georgia has filed charges against Nika Melia, the leader of the Coalition for Change. Melia is accused of disrespect for court, expressed in insulting a judge.

According to the Prosecutor's Office, the crime is punishable by up to 2 years in prison.

“The investigation revealed that on May 30 of this year, during a pre-trial hearing held in the hall of the Tbilisi City Court, the accused Nikanor Melia showed disrespect for the court, which was expressed by insulting the judge hearing the case. In particular, Nikanor Melia splashed water on Judge Irakli Shvangiradze, and after being expelled from the courtroom, verbally insulted him.

Nikanor Melia was charged under Article 366, Part 2 (disrespect for court, expressed in insulting a judge) of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which provides for imprisonment for up to 2 years as a form and measure of punishment.

The Prosecutor’s Office will apply to the court within the time limit established by law with a motion to impose detention on the accused as a preventive measure,” the information states.