One of the leaders of the Coalition for Change, Nika Melia, who is facing charges for allegedly refusing to cooperate with the Temporary Investigative Commission of the Georgian Parliament, has been granted bail set at 50,000 GEL as a preventive measure.
The decision was issued by Tbilisi City Court Judge Lela Maridashvili, who gave Melia 30 days to pay the bail.
Prosecutor Natia Tatiashvili said there is a risk that Melia could flee or commit further offenses. She argued that Melia has shown disregard for legal obligations based on his prior behavior.
The prosecution assessed Melia’s financial circumstances and determined that 50,000 GEL is an amount he is capable of paying. They emphasized that the bail should serve as a deterrent and proposed a 30-day deadline for payment.
During the court hearing, Melia strongly criticized the proceedings. He claimed the prosecution is driven by neither truth nor justice.
“My presence here today doesn’t mean I recognize your authority. The 50,000 GEL bail is unjust, and neither I nor my supporters accept it. Tsulukiani’s commission is illegitimate from start to finish. As a subordinate of Murusidze, it’s no surprise you are unaware of that. You serve neither truth nor integrity,” Melia told the judge.
Related story: Tbilisi Prosecutor’s Office to charge Nika Melia
