According to Aleksi Akhvlediani, the former head of the Maritime Transport Agency, the former Chairman of the Government of Adjara, Tornike Rizhvadze, will return to Georgia in the coming days. Akhvlediani made this statement before the start of a court hearing.
“I maintain my position; I do not consider myself guilty. I do not consider myself guilty due to many nuances. The court will determine everything,” Akhvlediani stated.
When asked whether, as Rizhvadze’s friend, he had any information about requests for Rizhvadze to testify against Gharibashvili, Akhvlediani replied that he had “no such information.”
In response to a question about whether he had discussed this matter with his friend or whether Rizhvadze was aware of investigations related to corruption, Akhvlediani gave a negative response.
“At that time, no investigation had been launched, and as far as I know, to this day, there are no questions or investigations regarding Tornike,” Akhvlediani said.
He also noted that Rizhvadze’s health condition has improved.
“As far as I know, in the coming days, in the near future, Tornike himself will make a statement and answer each of your questions. I have information that he will respond to all questions in the near future. He is probably planning to give an interview,” Akhvlediani stated.
According to him, Rizhvadze never intended to leave Georgia.
“He never intended to leave the country; you know the reason why he left. Based on the information I have, he will return in the near future and answer all questions,” Akhvlediani said.
When asked whether Rizhvadze intends to testify in corruption cases, Akhvlediani responded that “he has no information that anyone had or has questions regarding Rizhvadze in connection with corruption.”
For reference, the investigation into the attempted suicide of Tornike Rizhvadze, the former Chairman of the Government of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara, is being conducted under Article 115 of the Criminal Code. A separate criminal case has been opened regarding Aleksi Akhvlediani’s charges, as the shooting occurred from his firearm.
The Prosecutor’s Office has charged Aleksi Akhvlediani under Article 238 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which pertains to the negligent storage of a firearm that led to grave consequences. This offense carries a penalty of up to three years of imprisonment.
Aleksi Akhvlediani has been assigned a 30,000 GEL bail as a preventive measure.
Aleksi Akhvlediani: As far as I know, Tornike Rizhvadze will return in the coming days and answer all questions
