Georgian Ombudsman Criticized for Defending Election Losers
Nika Melia, a leader of the *Coalition for Change*, has spoken out against Levan Ioseliani, Georgia’s public defender. In social media posts, Melia accused Ioseliani of defending those who stole the elections.
Melia said that Ioseliani is protecting forces that took power through unfair means. He recently questioned why people were not protesting after their IDs were confiscated. Ioseliani also claimed that victims of state violence are not believable unless they protest in the streets.
Ioseliani initially admitted that protesters had been tortured, but later said it was not a widespread issue. Melia called him harmful and compared him to other government-appointed officials.
The timing of Ioseliani’s appointment as public defender is also seen as symbolic. He took office on the day Russia passed its own version of an ombudsman law. Melia views this as a sign that Ioseliani is part of the regime.
Melia believes that Ioseliani is the worst public defender Georgia has ever had. His actions are causing shame for the country and its people.
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