**OSCE/ODIHR Mission Blocked from Attending Court Hearings**
The OSCE/ODIHR mission, which is tasked with monitoring the court proceedings of those detained during ongoing protest rallies in Georgia, has been unable to attend due to a series of violations. This was stated by Lasha Tsutskiridze, a lawyer for those detained.
Tsutskiridze pointed out that the Georgian government is not granting the OSCE/ODIHR mission the necessary permission to conduct monitoring of political prisoners’ cases. He emphasized that if observers were allowed to attend the hearings, they would see that the defendants are not being afforded the right to a fair trial.
**Restrictions on Observers and Fair Trial Rights**
Tsutskiridze explained that the OSCE/ODIHR mission consists of practitioners, scholars, and lawyers from across Europe. He argued that restricting their right to attend these processes cannot be considered legitimate under any circumstances. The lawyer also noted that if the law is interpreted in a way that restricts a person’s attendance through photo, video, or audio means, it should not automatically mean that the OSCE/ODIHR observation mission’s attendance at the processes is restricted.
**Violations of Fair Trial Rights**
Tsutskiridze stated that the defendants are being denied their right to a fair trial in every process. He highlighted that convictions are based on non-existent evidence, leading to guilty verdicts against individuals. Additionally, he pointed out that during substantive hearings, none of the defendants receive a fair trial, citing restrictions on questioning, motions, interim decisions, or unfulfilled recusal motions.
**Commentary**
The blocking of the OSCE/ODIHR mission from attending court hearings raises serious concerns about the fairness and transparency of Georgia’s judicial system. The government’s refusal to grant permission for monitoring is a clear indication that they are not interested in ensuring that the rights of those detained are respected.
Tsutskiridze’s statements also highlight the need for greater accountability within the Georgian justice system. The lack of fair trial guarantees and the restriction on observers attending hearings undermine public trust in the judiciary and perpetuate a culture of impunity.
**Conclusion**
The inability of the OSCE/ODIHR mission to attend court proceedings due to government restrictions is a worrying development. It suggests that the Georgian government is more interested in silencing dissent than upholding the rule of law. As such, it is essential for the international community to continue monitoring the situation and advocating for the rights of those detained during ongoing protests.
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