The Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia has brought formal charges against Nika Melia, leader of the Coalition for Change, accusing him of showing contempt for court by insulting a judge during a hearing.
Prosecutor’s Office says the incident took place on May 30 during a pre-trial hearing at the Tbilisi City Court. Authorities allege that Melia splashed water on Judge Irakli Shvangiradze and, after being removed from the courtroom, verbally insulted him.
Melia has been charged under Article 366, Part 2 of Georgia’s Criminal Code, which covers “disrespect for court, expressed in insulting a judge,” and carries a penalty of up to two years in prison.
The Prosecutor’s Office announced it will request pre-trial detention for Melia as a preventive measure in accordance with legal procedures.
