The trial of Levan Khabeishvili, the chairman of the political council of the National Movement, and Murtaz Zodelava, an opposition politician, is underway at the Tbilisi City Court.

None of the defendants are present at today's trial.

Levan Khabeishvili refused to appear in court as a sign of protest. Murtaz Zodelava stated that since Khabeishvili is not present at the trial, he is also refusing to participate in the trial today, although not as a sign of protest.

As for Levan Khabeishvili's refusal to appear at the court hearing, his written position was presented to the judge and prosecutor by lawyer Lasha Tkesheladze.

"They only accuse me of talking. I have a protest with the so-called prosecutor. They forbid me from meeting with minors, what do they want from my children? Officials were having good time with their children at Christmas. Aren't my minors children? What did they do to deserve such a bitter school age.... I feel sorry for this evil, whoever signed this," - Levan Khabeishvili writes in a statement

The trial continues with the questioning of witnesses. Gela Abesadze, an employee of the State Security Service, is answering the defense's questions.

For information, Levan Khabeishvili is accused of promising a bribe to an official to commit an illegal act and publicly calling for the overthrow of the state government. In addition, Levan Khabeishvili has also been charged under Article 317 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which refers to public incitement to overthrow the state government.