Opposition member rejects charges, says protest was lawful

United National Movement member Irakli Nadiradze told the court that he did not admit guilt on any of the charges brought against him, insisting that the protest last month was entirely lawful.

Nadiradze said that gathering in protest violated no law and that he fully shared the goals of the demonstrations.

“I believed then, and I believe now, that there was nothing illegal about people gathering. There has not been a single rally I haven’t taken part in. Yes, this was a protest whose goals I shared and still share. I do not admit guilt on any count. They accuse me of attempting to seize strategic facilities. If anyone has stepped outside the constitution, it's the Georgian Dream. If anyone has seized institutions, it's the Georgian Dream. It is Dream that organised violent groups attacking everyone,” he said.

He accused Bidzina Ivanishvili and the ruling party of trying to “Russify” the country:

“Ivanishvili’s zebra will never become an Arabian thoroughbred - and this country will never become Russian, no matter how many laws they adopt. Thanks to everyone fighting for our country’s freedom and European future. These rallies and this resistance will continue peacefully. We will win - unity is strength, and the struggle continues to the end.”