“I wish you health. I understand that through this action you are expressing a certain position and protest, but here the full legal framework applies,” said Judge Romeo Tkeshelashvili of the Tbilisi City Court to defendant Zurab Chavchanidze, who has been on hunger strike for the 14th day.

The judge told the defendant that it is preferable for him to remain strong and healthy in order to participate in court proceedings effectively.

“Your right is [to go on hunger strike]. I wish you health. I understand that through this action you are expressing a certain position and protest, but here the full legal framework applies, and it is desirable that you remain strong and healthy so that you can participate in the consideration of your case. The rest is your right and choice,” the judge said to Chavchanidze.

For reference, the trial concerning the events of October 4 is ongoing at the Tbilisi City Court, involving 14 defendants.

The defendants in this case are: Vladimir Gvelesiani, Sergo Megrelishvili, Zurab Chavchanidze, Giorgi Rurua, Amiran Dolishvili, Anton Vardanidze, Giorgi Korkia, Aleksandre Chilachava, Genadi Kupreishvili, Lasha Ivanadze, Levan Jikia, Sulkhan Tugushi, Khvicha Gogokhia, and Ramaz Mamuladze. They are charged under Article 222(2)(a) of the Criminal Code of Georgia (attempting to seize an object of strategic and special importance, committed by a group) and Article 225(2) (participation in group violence), which carry a penalty of up to six years of imprisonment.