EU Releases Statement on Gigi Ugulava’s Case

The European Union has responded to the detention of one of the opposition leaders, Gigi Ugulava, saying that the circumstances around this verdict are not conducive to advancing the political dialogue aimed at much-needed depolarization of the political situation in Georgia.

“The European Union is currently scrutinizing closely the recent ruling by the Georgian Supreme Court in the case against opposition leader Gigi Ugulava.

"The circumstances around this verdict are not conducive to advancing the political dialogue aimed at much-needed depolarisation of the political situation in Georgia.

"Upholding the highest standards of judicial independence, fair trial and the rule of law is an essential commitment of Georgia under the EU-Georgia Association Agreement.

"The EU will also continue to monitor all other trials in Georgia related to high profile cases”, reads the statement.

On February 10, the Supreme Court found Ugulava guilty of embezzling funds, in particular, GEL 48 million and sentenced him to three years in prison.

The Court satisfied the prosecution's motion, according to which, he embezzled funds from the Tbilisi Development Fund, a non-commercial legal entity founded by the City Hall, the purpose of which is to preserve the historic look of the City and promote the growth of real estate value.

Shortly after, the opposition representatives announced the suspension of dialogue with the government regarding the electoral system.

"The Ruling Party Georgian Dream has removed the space for agreements and negotiations in the country. Therefore, the opposition can make only one decision - negotiations will be suspended from the moment of Ugulava's detention," David Bakradze, the leader of European Georgia, stated. 

By Ana Dumbadze 

Related Story: US Embassy 'Disappointed' that Ugulava's Detention Put Political Talks at Risk