UNM’s Pavlenishvili: EPP resolution calls for release of Baramidze, other ‘political prisoners’

United National Movement (UNM) governing council member Irakli Pavlenishvili said a resolution adopted by the European People’s Party (EPP) addresses what he described as the Georgian authorities’ “anti-state, anti-national and anti-Western” actions and calls for the release of UNM leader Giorgi Baramidze and other political prisoners.

Pavlenishvili said the resolution was significant because, in his view, it directly addressed the circumstances surrounding Baramidze’s detention and described the case as an example of political persecution.

“The resolution discusses all the anti-state, anti-national and anti-Western actions through which Ivanishvili is establishing an authoritarian regime,” Pavlenishvili said.

He added the document also addresses alleged attempts to ban political parties, political persecution and human rights violations.

Pavlenishvili highlighted the EPP’s call for Baramidze’s release, as well as its call for the release of former President Mikheil Saakashvili and other people whom the party considers political prisoners.

Baramidze, a former Georgian interior and defence minister and UNM leader, was arrested on 11 September 2026 and charged with treason over comments he made concerning the 1992-93 Abkhazia conflict.