**Georgian Court Hands Down Harsh Verdict to War Veteran Protester**
A court in Georgia has sentenced Anatoli Gigauri, a war veteran and protester, to two years in prison after a judge decided to reclassify charges against him. The decision was seen as a last-minute move by many, and it highlights the country’s ongoing struggles with freedom of speech and assembly.
Gigauri was detained after a rally last November, and he has always maintained his innocence. His lawyers argued that video evidence showed police officer Vakhtang Gabunia hitting Gigauri first, which led to the war veteran’s act of self-defense against the officer.
Despite this, Judge Jvebe Nachkebia delivered a verdict that many see as politically motivated. The charges were reclassified from assault on a police officer to “resistance, threat or violence” against an official, which carries a much lighter sentence.
This is not an isolated incident. Since November 2024, at least 12 protesters have been sentenced to prison terms on criminal charges related to their involvement in anti-Georgian Dream protests. Many of these convictions have been based on similar reclassifications of charges.
**A Pattern of Repression**
The verdict against Gigauri and others like him is part of a larger pattern of repression that has been observed in Georgia since 2024. The country’s authorities have been accused of using the justice system to silence critics and opposition politicians.
In recent months, several high-profile cases have come to light, including the sentencing of journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli to two years in prison on similar charges. Her case is particularly notable because it highlights the lack of accountability for police officers who have been involved in abuses during dispersals.
**A Growing List of Political Prisoners**
The number of people considered political prisoners by human rights groups continues to grow. Politpatimrebi.ge, a civic platform documenting the cases of detainees, lists over 60 persons who were jailed in 2024-2025 and are seen as having been imprisoned for their activism.
These verdicts come at a time when there has been no accountability for police officers involved in abuses during dispersals. Dozens of protesters remain in pre-trial custody, awaiting their rulings on similar or other protest-related charges.
**A Chilling Effect**
The continued repression and harsh sentences handed down to protesters and activists are having a chilling effect on the country’s opposition. Many see these verdicts as a clear indication that the government is willing to use its power to silence critics and maintain control.
As Georgia looks to the future, it remains to be seen whether the country will take steps to address these concerns and ensure that freedom of speech and assembly are protected.
**A Call for Action**
Human rights groups and opposition politicians are calling on the international community to speak out against these repressive practices. It is essential that the world recognizes the struggles faced by Georgia’s opposition and takes action to support their demands for justice and democracy.
As the country moves forward, one thing is clear: the people of Georgia will not be silenced.
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