A pre-trial hearing is taking place at the Tbilisi City Court for former Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili, who is accused of corruption-related offenses.

During today’s session, the admissibility of evidence will be discussed, and a decision will be made on whether the case should proceed to a trial on the merits.

Irakli Garibashvili is not present at the hearing; according to his stated position, he does not intend to attend any of the proceedings and will continue to communicate his stance through written statements.

His defense lawyers state that they are seeking the termination of the case.

Notably, testimony against Garibashvili was provided by former Minister of Defence Juansher Burchuladze and his relative, the convicted individual Vasil Mkheidze. According to their testimony, in exchange for procurement contracts, relevant guarantees, and protection, Juansher Burchuladze handed over 750,000 GEL—half of the 1,500,000 GEL he had received as a bribe—directly to Irakli Gharibashvili, while keeping the remaining 750,000 GEL for himself.

As a result of these actions, the state suffered significant property damage amounting to 6,985,255 GEL, and the public interest was substantially violated.

For reference, the Prosecutor's Office has charged Irakli Gharibashvili under Article 338, Part 2, Subparagraphs "a" and "c," and Part 3, Subparagraph "e" of the Criminal Code of Georgia. These provisions pertain to the acceptance of a bribe of an "especially large amount" by an individual holding a state-political office, acting as part of a group; the offense carries a penalty of 11 to 15 years of imprisonment.

Irakli Gharibashvili has been convicted of the legalization of illicit income (money laundering) involving an "especially large amount." Under a plea agreement, he was sentenced to 5 years of imprisonment and ordered to pay a fine of 1 million GEL.