Georgian opposition figure Giorgi Vashadze jailed in widening crackdown

A Georgian court has sentenced opposition leader Giorgi Vashadze to seven months in prison for not cooperating with a government commission investigating past abuses of power. This move continues a crackdown by the ruling Georgian Dream party on pro-European opposition figures, leading to widespread accusations of democratic repression. Vashadze's party earned third place in last year’s elections, which have been marred by allegations of fraud.

Additionally, poet Zviad Ratiani was arrested at a recent protest, facing charges that could lead to seven years in prison. Protests have surged following the October elections as citizens dispute the legitimacy of the government.