**Georgian Watchdog Slams Charges Against Opposition Figures**
The Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) has strongly criticized the criminal charges brought against opposition leaders for not attending a commission investigating alleged crimes by the ruling party. GYLA questions the legitimacy and conduct of the commission, raising concerns about its formation, composition, and activities.
**Problematic Commission**
GYLA argues that the commission’s work is “problematic” and lacks transparency. The watchdog notes that the commission’s explanatory note does not provide enough information about what issues will be investigated or who will be summoned to testify. This lack of clarity has led GYLA to suspect that the commission aims to marginalize opposition political parties, paving the way for their potential banning.
**Commission Composed of Ruling Party Members**
GYLA also points out that the commission is comprised entirely of members from the ruling party and includes “symbolic” opposition members who were elected on the same electoral list. This composition undermines the credibility of the commission and raises concerns about its impartiality.
**Criminal Charges for Non-Compliance**
The commission has referred cases of non-compliance to the Prosecutor’s Office, leading to criminal charges against several opposition leaders. GYLA insists that these refusals should not result in criminal charges, as they fall under the category of less serious crimes. The watchdog argues that Article 349 of the Criminal Code, under which opposition leaders are charged, does not constitute a threat to public safety.
**Pre-Trial Detention for Okruashvili**
GYLA has also criticized the Tbilisi City Court’s decision to replace Irakli Okruashvili’s bail with pre-trial detention. Okruashvili, a former Defense Minister and now an opposition figure, had cooperated fully with court procedures and had appeared at previous hearings. GYLA suggests that this decision was motivated by a desire to punish the individual rather than ensuring justice.
**Opposition Leaders Refuse to Cooperate**
Several opposition leaders have refused to cooperate with the commission, citing their rejection of its legitimacy. These include Nika Melia, Mamuka Khazaradze, and Badri Japaridze, who have all been charged under Article 349 for failing to appear before the commission.
GYLA’s comments highlight the deep-seated concerns about the commission’s legitimacy and the motivations behind its actions. As the watchdog group points out, the Prosecutor’s Office has failed to initiate criminal proceedings against those involved in alleged human rights abuses during anti-regime protests. The charges against opposition leaders raise questions about the rule of law in Georgia.
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