**Life Imprisonment for Brutal Murder: Tbilisi Court of Appeals Upholds Verdict**
In a significant ruling, the Tbilisi Court of Appeals has upheld the guilty verdict against Beka Jaiani for the deliberate murder of Kesaria Abramidze. The victim was killed on September 18, 2024, in Didi Dighomi, Tbilisi, due to Jaiani’s intolerance based on gender and gender identity.
According to the Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia, evidence presented during the trial confirmed that Jaiani inflicted multiple stab wounds on Abramidze with particular cruelty. The victim died at the scene as a result of her injuries. Furthermore, the prosecution found that Jaiani regularly abused Abramidze, causing her physical and psychological suffering.
The charges against Jaiani were filed under Article 109 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which deals with premeditated murder committed with particular cruelty and on the grounds of gender. He was also charged under Article 126^1 for systematic violence causing physical and psychological suffering to the victim. These charges carry a maximum penalty of 16 to 20 years or life imprisonment.
**Commentary: A Step Towards Justice**
The upholding of Jaiani’s guilty verdict is a significant step towards justice in Georgia. The country has been working to strengthen its laws and institutions to protect vulnerable groups, including those from the LGBTQ+ community. This ruling sends a strong message that violence and intolerance based on gender and gender identity will not be tolerated.
**Analysis: A Turning Point?**
This verdict marks a turning point for Georgia’s judicial system in addressing hate crimes. The fact that the Tbilisi Court of Appeals upheld the life imprisonment sentence without any changes suggests a growing recognition of the gravity of such crimes. As the country continues to navigate its path towards greater inclusivity and human rights, cases like this one will serve as a crucial test of its commitment to justice.
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