Eminence Nikolozi, Metropolitan of Akhalkalaki and Kumurdo, on Tuesday said the condition of imprisoned former president Mikheil Saakashvili was “severe”, with the latter “on the verge of death”. 

The cleric claimed Saakashvili took communion and was unable to stand on his feet, suffering pain.  “He looks very skinny, with holes on his face. To prevent his death, he should be sent abroad for treatment”, said the cleric. 

Tbilisi city court denied granting Saakashvili’s release on medical grounds earlier this month. 

The third president, who was arrested in Tbilisi in October 2021 after eight years in self-imposed political exile, is now serving his six-year-sentence for abuse of power while in office, while three other cases are pending. 

Saakahsvili currently holds Ukrainian citizenship and took a public post in the country before his detention.