**Government Crackdown Continues: Opposition Leader Sentenced to 7 Months in Prison**
In a move that has sparked outrage among opposition groups, a Georgian court has sentenced Zurab Girchi Japaridze, leader of the “Coalition for Change,” to 7 months in prison for failing to comply with demands from a parliamentary temporary investigative commission. Judge Jvabe Nachkebia made the decision, citing that Japaridze’s actions were punishable by law.
**Opposition Leader Speaks Out Against Government Crackdown**
Elen Khoshtaria, another leader of the “Coalition for Change,” has spoken out against the government crackdown on opposition leaders. In a statement, she emphasized the importance of unity and non-cooperation in the face of government repression. “We are proud of our leaders, proud of the people who fight the system through non-cooperation and non-recognition,” Khoshtaria said.
Khoshtaria noted that Japaridze’s imprisonment is just one example of the government’s tactics to silence opposition voices. She called on all opposition groups to stand together and end the debate about the absurdity of local elections under the current regime. “Under this regime, they don’t exist,” Khoshtaria stated.
**Government Crackdown Continues**
The sentencing of Japaridze is just the latest example of the government’s crackdown on opposition leaders in Georgia. Mamuka Khazaradze, Badri Japaridze, and Giorgi Vashadze are also facing imprisonment for their roles in the “Coalition for Change.” Judge Nachkebia also banned Japaridze from holding public office for 2 years.
**Reactions to the Sentence**
The sentencing of Japaridze has been met with widespread condemnation from opposition groups. Many have called on the government to respect human rights and freedoms, and to end its crackdown on opposition leaders. The incident highlights the ongoing struggle between the government and opposition forces in Georgia.
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