Ex-Pres Saakashvili slams opposition figure Melia but calls for his release

Georgia's former president, Mikheil Saakashvili, has criticised opposition politician Nika Melia, saying he had been disappointed by his political trajectory despite years of support.

In a social media post on Monday, Saakashvili said he had repeatedly defended and supported Melia, while dismissing criticism from others. He said he had hoped Melia would emerge as a successful political figure but ultimately considered that expectation to have been misplaced.

Saakashvili compared Melia's political path to that of several former allies whom he accused of abandoning their original goals, including Irakli Okruashvili and Giga Bokeria.

The former president also reflected on a number of former associates whom he said had gone on to achieve successful careers in Georgia and abroad, arguing that he takes pride in the accomplishments of people he has worked with over the years.

Despite his criticism, Saakashvili said he held no personal animosity towards Melia and expressed hope that he would be released from custody soon and reunited with his family.

"Politics is not only about ambition, but first and foremost about humanity," Saakashvili wrote, adding that he wished Melia "freedom and a happy life".