Opposition member calls for release of civil activist Datashvili over health concerns

Marika Arevadze, a member of the opposition Coalition for Change, has urged the court to modify the detention of fellow civil activist and teacher Nino Datashvili, citing a serious deterioration in her health.

“Nino Datashvili’s condition has worsened under prison conditions. This is the second time her spinal health has deteriorated. It is crucial that she be allowed to undergo rehabilitation and treatment in a clinical setting. The only way to achieve this is for the court to change the preventive measure,” Arevadze said.

She added that, although the case against Datashvili was “entirely absurd” and she had been imprisoned unnecessarily, the detention conditions “must be reconsidered.”

Datashvili was arrested on 20 June in connection with an incident on 9 June at the Tbilisi City Court. She faces charges under Article 353, Part 3 of the Criminal Code for allegedly attacking a public official during the performance of their duties, a crime punishable by a fine or 4-7 years in prison.