Businessman Giorgi Chikvaidze goes on hunger strike in detention

Businessman Giorgi Chikvaidze, who was arrested on March 11, has declared a hunger strike in protest against his detention.

“I will not submit to oppression by this system! From today, I am on a full hunger strike. I will remain steadfast in my principles, even if it costs me my life—I do this out of love for my country,” Chikvaidze stated in a message shared by TV Pirveli.

He placed responsibility for his arrest on what he called the “Russian regime,” accusing ruling party founder, billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili and Chief Prosecutor Giorgi Gabitashvili of corruption. He also urged his family, friends, and supporters to take action, stating, “Silence makes you part of this process. Friends, do not stop. The fight continues until victory.”

Chikvaidze was initially released on bail after being charged with embezzling a large sum of money. However, on March 11, the court revoked his bail and ordered his pre-trial detention instead.