Prosecutor: opposition leader Murtaz Zodelava admits attempt to seize strategic facility in Government overthrow case

A court session was held on Thursday concerning some of the organisers accused in the case of attempting to overthrow the Government. Defendant Paata Burjuladze was absent from the hearing.

During the session, the opposition leaders Paata Manjgaladze, Murtaz Zodelava, and Irakli Nadiradze spoke.

The prosecution presented specific video evidence as part of the case. Despite the evidence and concrete facts presented, the defendants continued to defend themselves and did not plead guilty.

Prosecutor Tamar Bezhuashvili told journalists that Murtaz Zodelava essentially admitted to attempting to seize a strategic facility.

“During today’s court hearing of those detained for attempting to overthrow the Government, the prosecution examined video evidence, including that of the organisers, as well as evidence concerning specific individuals. Murtaz Zodelava essentially admitted to the attempt to seize a strategic facility”, the prosecutor stated.

On October 4, large-scale protests in Tbilisi escalated into a dramatic confrontation, as a group of radical demonstrators tried to storm the presidential palace. The unrest occurred on the same day Georgia held municipal elections.

Authorities detained five opposition figures, including Paata Burchuladze. They are now facing charges of plotting to overthrow the government - a potential offense that could carry lengthy prison sentences.

Government officials described the events as a failed coup attempt orchestrated with foreign backing. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze called the protests “an attempted overthrow of the constitutional order”.