MIA: Opposition leader Aleko Elisashvili arrested on charges of ‘violence against political opponent’

TBILISI – The Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs announced the arrest of Aleko Elisashvili, a leader of the Strong Georgia coalition, following an investigation into an alleged politically motivated assault.

According to the Ministry, Elisashvili faces charges under Article 156, Section 2(a) of the Georgian Criminal Code, which pertains to persecution involving violence. If convicted, the offense carries a maximum penalty of three years’ imprisonment.

The investigation alleges that on December 2, Elisashvili assaulted a member of the ruling party, Georgian Dream, identified as A.B., near a pharmacy on Kostava Street in Tbilisi. The altercation is said to have been motivated by political differences.

Law enforcement authorities detained Elisashvili following investigative procedures and charged him with the offense.

“The case is being investigated under the criminal code provision addressing persecution through the use of violence,” the Ministry’s statement read.

Elisashvili’s legal team has yet to release a statement on the charges.