**Saakashvili Sentenced to 9 Years in Prison**
Mikheil Saakashvili, Georgia’s third president, has been sentenced to 9 years in prison. A court in Tbilisi found him guilty of embezzling a large sum of money from the state budget.
**Background**
Saakashvili and his former aide, Teimuraz Janashia, were accused of taking 9 million GEL (a type of currency) without permission. The prosecution claimed that they used this money for personal gain while Saakashvili was in office.
**Reaction from Saakashvili**
Saakashvili responded to the verdict by saying it was a punishment for his love and dedication to the country. He accused the court and those who brought him to trial of being part of Ivanishvili’s mafia clan. Saakashvili has always been an outspoken figure in Georgian politics, known for his strong opinions and willingness to speak out against what he sees as injustice.
**Verdict Delivered**
Judge Badri Kochlamazashvili delivered the verdict, which also included a fine of 300,000 GEL for Teimuraz Janashia. Saakashvili has vowed that this will not deter him from speaking out and fighting for his country’s interests.
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