Former PM Garibashvili Charged, Protests Intensify Amidst EU Warnings on Visa-Free Regime
October 24, 2025
Today, October 24, 2025, in Georgia was largely dominated by significant legal and political developments, alongside notable international reactions and sporting achievements. The most prominent event was the formal charging of former Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili with the legalization of illegal income. Prosecutors revealed that 6.5 million USD was seized from his apartment during a search, and he was offered bail of 1 million GEL, which he reportedly accepted. This case has drawn considerable attention, with financial analysts like Giga Bedineishvili suggesting that the proceedings are influenced by Bidzina Ivanishvili's will, while some ruling party members expressed emotional dismay over the situation.
These legal proceedings against a former high-ranking official unfolded amidst a tense political atmosphere marked by ongoing pro-European protests in Tbilisi. Several activists and journalists were detained, including Public Broadcaster Trustee Board member Lika Basilaia-Shavgulidze who was sentenced to 5 days of administrative detention, and journalists Basti Mgaloblishvili and Vasil Ivanov-Chikovani with his wife Maiko Bokeria, though Mgaloblishvili was later released. Additionally, Nadim Khmaladze, a pro-European activist and Ukrainian war veteran, reported being physically assaulted near his home. These detentions and the reported assault fuel concerns over freedom of expression and assembly in Georgia.
International attention remained focused on Georgia's European path. The EU Ambassador to Georgia, Pavel Herchynski, issued a stark warning, stating that Georgia has adopted laws contradicting EU principles, which could hinder its European membership aspirations. He explicitly mentioned that all options are on the table, including the full or partial suspension of the visa-free regime for Georgian citizens. Ambassador Herchynski also welcomed the European Parliament's decision to award the Sakharov Prize to Mzia Amaghlobeli, highlighting the EU's commitment to human rights.
Amidst these political and legal challenges, Georgian athletes continued to make headlines. In football, forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was noted for his performance with PSG, and an amusing social media campaign linking him to South African roots gained traction. The Futsal Euro 2026 draw placed Georgia in Group A alongside France, Croatia, and host Latvia. In basketball, Georgian NBA players Goga Bitadze and Sandro Mamukelashvili both started their seasons with wins. MMA fighter Guram Kutateladze secured a victory in his ACA debut, while UFC President Dana White expressed interest in hosting a championship fight in Georgia, potentially featuring Merab Dvalishvili.