Opposition leader Elisashvili accuses judge of restricting his right to speak during court hearing

Aleko Elisashvili, leader of the Citizens party, has accused the judge overseeing his case of denying him the opportunity to speak during a court hearing.

Addressing the court, Elisashvili said he had repeatedly been interrupted and prevented from presenting his position.

“You do not allow me to speak hearing after hearing,” he said. “I had not even started talking when you interrupted me. What I say is for me to decide.”

Elisashvili also criticised the court proceedings, claiming the judge was afraid to allow him to speak freely despite the seriousness of the charges he faces.

“I am facing two 15-year charges and you still will not let me speak,” he said, adding that “even the Bolsheviks allowed people to speak”.

The opposition politician made the remarks during an ongoing court hearing related to attempted terrorist act charges against him.