Nika Melia's release on bail set at 50,000 Georgian Laris
Alright, here's a fresh take on that article:
Nika Melia, a key figure in the Coalition for Change, stands accused of not complying with the Temporary Investigative Commission of the Georgian Parliament—a move that could land him in hot water. A hearing at the Tbilisi City Court recently ruled in his favor, granting him a 50,000 GEL bail to ensure his presence at subsequent proceedings.
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It was Tbilisi City Court Judge Lela Maridashvili who handed down the decision, giving Melia a 30-day window to come up with the money. Prosecutor Natia Tatiashvili voiced concerns that Melia could skip town or cause further disruptions, pointing to his past actions as evidence of a disregard for legal obligations.
The prosecution evaluated Melia's financial standing and deemed 50,000 GEL as a feasible figure for the defendant to meet. They argued that the bail should serve as a deterrent, and proposed a one-month payment deadline.
During the court session, Melia was unsparing in his criticism of the proceedings. He accused the prosecution of driving its actions neither by truth nor by justice.
"This court doesn't hold any authority over me. The 50,000 GEL bail is unfair, and neither I, nor my supporters, accept it. The Tsulukiani commission is illegitimate from the get-go, and you, as Murusidze's underling, are clueless about that. You serve neither truth nor integrity," Melia shot back at the judge.
For further details, check out our related story titled: "Tbilisi Prosecutor's Office to charge Nika Melia".
Key Insights:- The allegations against Melia stem from Article 349 of Georgia’s Criminal Code, which pertains to failing to comply with a parliamentary commission’s request, potentially resulting in penalties of up to one year in prison, fines, or a three-year ban on holding public office.- Melia's lawyer, Giorgi Kondakhashvili, has indicated plans to appeal the decision, expressing uncertainty about the outcome.
- Prosecutor Natia Tatiashvili refused to accept Nika Melia's bail decision, voicing concerns that he might skip town or cause further disruptions.
- The general-news and crime-and-justice sectors have been abuzz with Melia's recent bail ruling, as it falls under the category of 'politics'.
- Despite the 50,000 GEL bail granted by the Tbilisi City Court, Melia has openly refused to accept it, stating that the amount is unfair and questioning the legitimacy of the Tsulukiani commission.
- In response to Melia's accusations, it is expected that the Melia case will move forward, with the Tbilisi Prosecutor's Office potentially pressing charges.
