A plea bargain with "Georgian Dream" is not an act of contrition, but rather an opportunity to be released from unlawful detention – Paata Burchuladze

Paata Burchuladze comments on the release—via plea bargain—of those arrested in connection with the events of October 4.

"I wish to address the release, through a plea bargain, of the individuals arrested at the Georgian National Assembly on October 4—a matter that has sparked considerable controversy.

I stated at every court hearing, and I reiterate now, that I am the sole organizer of this National Assembly; no one else is. I am proud of that day and its historical significance. I believe it was an exemplary day of unity and struggle against the regime—a day that awakened dormant resistance and demonstrated to the entire world that the spirit of protest had not vanished, that we are continuing the fight, and that 'Georgian Dream' does not reflect the will of the Georgian people.

Struggle always demands self-sacrifice. I do not believe that any political prisoner looks back on that day with regret." "On the contrary, I know they are proud and happy, for they have fought and continue to fight for the liberation of their homeland. And to those 'well-wishers' outside the prison walls: remember, political prisoners do not need hypocritical, feigned pity or crocodile tears from the outside! They are heroes, yet this does not mean they must necessarily remain in captivity for years on end without escaping this injustice. After all, we all know that a plea bargain with 'Georgian Dream' is not an act of repentance, but rather a means to secure release from unlawful imprisonment.

I extend my support not only to prisoners of conscience and political prisoners but also to Giorgi Davitadze and his family, and to every prisoner who has fallen victim to the regime's pressure and mistreatment!

The regime is on the verge of collapse, and victory is inevitable! What matters most is that we stand united and do not let ourselves be divided! I am proud to be one of you! Long live an unsubjugated, free, and European Georgia!" reads the letter from Paata Burchuladze.