Giorgi Kakhiani: Elene Khoshtaria could have paid bail; had she admitted to her crime, she would not have been in a penitentiary institution now - these are her own choices

Giorgi Kakhiani, a member of the parliamentary majority, addressed the issue of transferring Elene Khoshtaria—leader of the "Droa" movement—to a clinic. He stated that the convicted individual could have avoided imprisonment by either paying bail or admitting to her crime.

He explained that the law mandates imprisonment in the event that bail is not paid; therefore, "Elene Khoshtaria’s presence in a penitentiary institution is her own decision." Kakhiani noted that individuals convicted of far more serious crimes—who cooperate with the state and express remorse—often leave prison through plea agreements.

"For what is Elene Khoshtaria serving a penalty? Elene Khoshtaria could have paid bail. The court offered her the option of bail, which she chose not to pay. Consequently, the law stipulates that if bail is not paid, it is replaced by detention.

As for the deprivation of liberty—the penalty imposed—she could have simply admitted to the crime she committed. She is well aware that she committed an offense; had she acted differently, she would not have been in a detention facility today—in other words, this is the result of her own decisions.

Under the law, the crime she committed carries a penalty of imprisonment; however, it was possible for this measure not to be applied to her. To reiterate: the court imposed a bail of 5,000 GEL. She did not pay it, knowing full well that failing to do so would result in detention.

And what do we see today, given the current circumstances? Even individuals convicted of far more serious crimes—who chose to cooperate with the state, admitted their guilt, and expressed remorse—are entering into plea agreements and leaving detention facilities. Many have already left, and many more will follow. Had Ms. Elene admitted to her crime, she would not be in a detention facility today. Had she paid the 5,000-lari bail when she had the chance, she would not be in custody. So, this is her own decision. I don’t know the details—I certainly wouldn’t wish for anyone’s health to suffer—but I have already shared my views regarding her from other perspectives," states Gaga Kakhiani.