Lelo – Strong Georgia files motion for recusal of three Constitutional Court judges

Lelo – Strong Georgia has filed a motion for the recusal of three Constitutional Court judges.

According to Kakhi Samkharadze, a representative for Lelo at the proceedings, one of the judges—Vasil Roinishvili, whose recusal is being sought—participated in the case of Sergeant Roin Shavadze in his capacity as a supervising prosecutor.

"We are requesting the recusal of three judges. We emphasize this to ensure the Court does not interpret our request as an attempt to obstruct the proceedings or prevent the case from being heard. We are aware that there are currently only seven members on the Court, rather than the full complement of nine; however, the fact that the Constitutional Court is not at full strength is not a matter for which the respondent party bears responsibility. We are seeking the recusal of Vasil Roinishvili—a member of the Constitutional Court assigned to hear this case—on the grounds that he was involved in the proceedings of a specific case mentioned in this claim during its consideration within the system of common courts. I am referring to the case of Sergeant Roin Shavadze. In this instance, it is clear that Vasil participated in the proceedings as a supervising prosecutor. Consequently, this raises concerns regarding his independence and impartiality—grounds which are entirely sufficient, under Article 46, Paragraph 1, Subparagraph 'b' of the Organic Law of Georgia on the Constitutional Court, to warrant questioning his impartiality. Furthermore, we are also filing a motion for the recusal of two newly appointed members—Goga Kikilashvili and Sergo Metopishvili," stated Kakhi Samkharadze.