**Former Deputy Minister of Economy Accused of Abuse of Power**
Romeo Mikautadze, a former high-ranking official in the Georgian government, has been accused of abuse of power and legalization of illegal income. The 43-year-old politician was arrested by the State Security Service (SSS) on charges that he used his position for personal gain and harmed the interests of the state.
**Mikautadze Denies Guilt**
Speaking to reporters outside the SSS building, Mikautadze’s lawyer, Beka Nemsitsveridze, insisted that his client is innocent. “Romeo Mikautadze does not plead guilty because he did not commit the act he is accused of,” said the lawyer. “He is fully prepared to verify and justify all of his assets, down to the last tetri.”
Nemsitsveridze claimed that the authorities were afraid of Mikautadze’s testimony, which could have dismantled the accusations against him. “We believe the authorities were afraid that his testimony and the documents he could present would dismantle this absurd accusation that was brought against him today,” said Nemsitsveridze.
**The Charges**
According to the SSS, Mikautadze used his official position, personal connections, and experience in the energy sector for personal gain. He allegedly granted undue advantages to certain individuals, receiving shares in energy companies in return. The agency also stated that Mikautadze systematically abused his official power for personal or third-party gain, harming the legitimate interests of the state.
The SSS identified several cases where Mikautadze was accused of wrongdoing, including the purchase of an apartment in Madrid using illegal income and the registration of vehicles under the names of trusted associates to conceal the origin of the property.
**The Sentence**
Mikautadze has been charged under Article 194 and Article 332 of Georgia’s Criminal Code, which carries a sentence of 9 to 12 years in prison. The investigation will further clarify the circumstances of Mikautadze’s unlawful income and the episodes of its legalization.
**Commentary**
The accusations against Mikautadze highlight the ongoing struggle with corruption in Georgia. While the country has made significant progress in fighting corruption, cases like this one demonstrate that there is still much work to be done.
As a former high-ranking official, Mikautadze’s case raises questions about accountability and transparency within the government. The fact that he allegedly used his position for personal gain and harmed the interests of the state undermines public trust in the government and its institutions.
The investigation into Mikautadze’s activities will likely spark a wider debate about corruption and the need for greater transparency in government affairs. As Nemsitsveridze said, “This is not just a case against Romeo Mikautadze; it’s a test of justice and accountability in our country.”
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