**Georgian Activist Fined 5,000 Lari for Protest-Related Charges**
In a recent court decision, Elene Khoshtaria, a prominent leader of the “Coalition for Change,” has been slapped with a hefty fine. Judge Zviad Tsetskava found her administratively liable and imposed a penalty of 5,000 lari.
The charges against Khoshtaria stem from an incident on March 28, when she was accused of participating in a protest rally near the Georgian Parliament. According to reports, she allegedly violated Articles 166 and 173 of the country’s Administrative Offenses Code, which relate to petty hooliganism and disobedience to a lawful police order.
**No Show in Court**
Interestingly, Khoshtaria did not attend the hearing where the judge made his decision. This has raised questions about her willingness to engage with the justice system and contest the charges against her.
**Background on the Charges**
For those unfamiliar with Georgian law, Articles 166 and 173 are typically used to prosecute individuals who engage in minor acts of disorderly conduct or refuse to comply with police instructions. In this case, Khoshtaria’s alleged actions at the protest rally have been deemed a breach of these regulations.
**Reactions and Analysis**
The fine imposed on Elene Khoshtaria has sparked reactions from various quarters. While some see it as a legitimate consequence for her actions, others view it as an attempt to silence a prominent voice in Georgian civil society. As we continue to follow this story, one thing is clear: the fine will not deter Khoshtaria and her supporters from advocating for change.
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