Lawyer cites “technical flaws” as ex-pres. Saakashvili’s trial postponed

Shalva Khachapuridze, a lawyer of imprisoned former president of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili, on Friday named “technical problems” behind the reason for the postponement of a trial earlier today that was expected to grant the former official’s release on medical grounds. 

The lawyer said a judge asked for two working days, with the trial rescheduled on December 14. 

Khachapuridze said the defense side had presented an English version of a medical report by a domestic rehabilitation Empathy centre, which had pointed to more than 20 health issues and potential coma and death and recommended Saakashvili’s transportation abroad for “proper treatment.” 

He said the English version was necessary as it included the signatures of foreign experts involved in the drafting of the conclusion. 

“We have also presented other important evidence obtained over the past several days”, the lawyer said and noted Saakashvili could get involved in the trial online. 

Eka Kherkheulidze, a member of the United National Movement opposition party, on Friday said Saakashvili was ready for the trial to be held in the Vivamedi civilian clinic, where he has been receiving treatment since May, if the process remained open to the public. 

Khatia Dekanoidze, a fellow member of the UNM, alleged she had an impression of the judge trying to delay the process.