Nika Gvaramia, one of the leaders of the opposition alliance, says it is noteworthy that proceedings in the so-called “sabotage case” against opposition politicians have been expedited at a time when discussions about Georgia’s visa-free travel regime with the European Union are intensifying.

According to Gvaramia, a court hearing that had been scheduled for 25 June was unexpectedly moved forward to 11 June at the request of the prosecution.

“Isn't it interesting that, in parallel with discussions about the possible suspension of the visa-free regime and related negotiations, the disgraceful and fabricated sabotage case - where nearly the entire Georgian political leadership is standing trial - has suddenly been accelerated?”

Gvaramia argued that the development comes as the European Union places significant emphasis on human rights concerns in Georgia.

“The hearing scheduled for 25 June was suddenly rescheduled to 11 June at the prosecution’s request. This is happening in a country where court proceedings are usually dragged out indefinitely, especially during the summer. And it is happening while the European Union considers human rights issues a key part of the ongoing discussions and a significant factor affecting the future of visa-free travel.”

He concluded by suggesting that the public should draw its own conclusions regarding the intentions of the ruling party, Georgian Dream.

For reference, charges in the so-called sabotage case have been brought against several opposition figures, including Mikheil Saakashvili, Giorgi Vashadze, Nika Gvaramia, Nika Melia, Zurab Japaridze, Elene Khoshtaria, Mamuka Khazaradze, and Badri Japaridze. The charges include allegations of sabotage, assistance to a foreign country in hostile activities, and, in some cases, calls for the violent overthrow of the constitutional order.