Case of Irakli Garibashvili Referred to Court for Substantive Hearing

The case of former Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili, who is accused of a corruption-related offense, has been referred to the court for a substantive hearing.

This decision was made by Judge Lela Kalichenko.

During today’s hearing, the admissibility of evidence was discussed, and a decision was reached to proceed to a substantive examination of the case.

According to Prosecutor Ana Lekiashvili, there are no legal grounds to terminate the case.

The defense, however, argued that the proceedings against Garibashvili should have been terminated. Defense attorney Lali Aptsiauri stated that the charges against Garibashvili are based on the testimonies of Juansher Burchuladze and Vasil Mkheidze.

The attorney further noted that Burchuladze and Mkheidze are relatives, adding that "both of them received concessions; consequently, their sole objective was to secure their own freedom."

It should be noted that the testimony against Garibashvili was provided by former Minister of Defence Juansher Burchuladze and his relative, the convicted individual Vasil Mkheidze. According to their testimony, in exchange for procurement contracts, relevant guarantees, and patronage, Juansher Burchuladze handed over 750,000 GEL—half of the 1,500,000 GEL he had received as a bribe—directly to Irakli Gharibashvili, while keeping the remaining 750,000 GEL for himself. As a result of these actions, the state suffered significant property damage amounting to 6,985,255 GEL, and the public interest was substantially violated.

For reference, the Prosecutor's Office has charged Irakli Gharibashvili under Article 338, Part 2, Subparagraphs "a" and "c," and Part 3, Subparagraph "e" of the Criminal Code of Georgia. These provisions pertain to the acceptance of a bribe in an especially large amount by an individual holding a state-political office, acting as part of a group; the offense carries a penalty of 11 to 15 years of imprisonment.

Irakli Gharibashvili has been convicted of legalizing illicit income in an especially large amount. Under a plea agreement, he was sentenced to 5 years of imprisonment and ordered to pay a fine of 1 million GEL.