**Trial Underway for Nika Melia, Leader of the ‘Coalition for Change’**
In a dramatic turn of events, Nika Melia, one of the leaders of the “Coalition for Change”, is on trial at Tbilisi City Court. The charges against him are related to his failure to appear before a parliamentary temporary investigative commission. Melia himself is attending the session, and his presence has already sparked controversy.
When Judge Irakli Shvangiradze asked if he wanted to challenge the judge’s authority, Melia responded with characteristic boldness: “I have a great desire to remove you all, but for now, there’s no such possibility. To remove you, Murusidze, Chinchaladze – generally, the whole system… I told you what my desire is.” These words reflect his continued commitment to fighting against what he sees as an unfair system.
**Background: Melia’s Arrest and Charges**
Melia was arrested on May 29 by law enforcement officers under administrative charges for verbally insulting a police officer. However, the trial currently underway is unrelated to this incident. Instead, it concerns his failure to appear before the parliamentary temporary investigative commission, which he had been summoned to attend.
**The Consequences: Bail and Charges**
The Tbilisi City Court has set bail at 50,000 GEL as a preventive measure. However, Melia did not pay the bail, which means he could face serious consequences if found guilty. The charges against him are under Article 349 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which deals with “Failure to comply with the request of the parliamentary temporary investigative commission.”
**Punishment: A Fine or Imprisonment?**
If convicted, Melia faces a fine or imprisonment for up to one year. Furthermore, he may also be banned from holding office or engaging in certain activities for up to three years. This would have significant implications for his political career and the work of the “Coalition for Change”.
**What’s at Stake?**
The trial of Nika Melia has far-reaching implications for Georgia’s politics. It highlights the ongoing tensions between the government and opposition forces, as well as the challenges faced by those advocating for change.
Read More @ www.interpressnews.ge
