**Judge Rejects Bail for 8 Protesters in Tbilisi**
On January 11, a judge at the Tbilisi City Court ruled to keep eight protesters in custody. The decision was made after an 8-hour court session.
The individuals were arrested during pro-European protests in December and face charges under Article 225 of Georgia’s Criminal Code. They could get prison sentences of four to six years.
The defendants, who are being tried together, include Zviad Tsetskhladze, Vepkhia Kasradze, Vasil Kadzelashvili, Giorgi Gorgadze, Irakli Miminoshvili, Insaf Aliev, Tornike Goshadze, and Nikoloz Javakhishvili. Their defense lawyers argued that there is no evidence they knew each other.
**Defendants Speak Out**
One of the defendants, Vepkhia Kasradze, spoke out during the hearing. He said, “You did not consider the evidence, you just sentenced me to imprisonment.” He added, “By sentencing me, you did not take away my freedom. On the contrary, I have never been so free.”
**Controversy Over Courtroom Conditions**
The hearing was criticized for being held in a cramped courtroom that excluded many attendees. The judge refused to move the proceedings to a larger venue despite health concerns. One defendant became unwell due to poor air ventilation and required medical attention.
Defense attorneys and defendants left the session in protest, citing inhumane conditions. They have stated their willingness to continue participating in the proceedings only if the venue is changed.
**Criticism from Human Rights Groups**
Transparency International Georgia addressed the violations of public hearing principles. The group said that the court’s actions aim to punish the defendants as an example, disregarding legal norms entirely. They urged the Georgian Dream party and Judge Irakli Khuskivadze to cease violating the fundamental rights of the defendants.
**Protests Outside the Courthouse**
The hearing was conducted amidst protests outside the courthouse. Citizens rallied in solidarity with the detainees, chanting slogans such as “Down with the regime – freedom for the prisoners” and “Unjust court – fear the power of the people.”
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