Council of Europe Sheds Light on Saakashvili's Imprisonment Conditions in Georgia
On January 18, the "European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment" released a comprehensive report following its delegation's visit to Georgia. The evaluation primarily focused on conditions at the "Vivamedi" clinic. While the delegation praised the clinic's staff for their cooperation, there were concerns about limited access to medical files on the first day of the visit. Despite an overall positive atmosphere, the report mentioned two complaints from prisoners about improper treatment by the Vivamedi clinic staff.
One significant aspect of the report revolved around the case of Mikhail Saakashvili, the former president of Georgia, referred to as "Patient C" in the document. Saakashvili had filed a formal complaint of alleged physical ill-treatment during his transfer from Rustavi No. 12 Prison to the prison hospital in November 2021. The committee recommended being informed about the outcome of the investigation into these allegations. Additionally, the report highlighted deficiencies in individualized treatment plans, a lack of mental health care, and excessive security measures on the floor where Saakashvili was housed.
In response to the committee's findings, the United National Movement party issued a statement asserting that Saakashvili is a political prisoner and demanding his immediate release. The party emphasized the negative impact of Saakashvili's political imprisonment on the upcoming 2024 elections, stating that it fundamentally undermines the possibility of a free, fair, and competitive electoral environment.
Zurab Chkhaidze, the clinical director of the "Vivamedi" clinic, defended the medical services provided, asserting that they adhere to international standards. However, he clarified that the clinic has no authority over the environmental conditions, which fall under the jurisdiction of the penitentiary institution.
Irakli Kadagishvili, the Procedural Issues and Rules Committee Chairman, responded to the committee's conclusions, acknowledging that not all recommendations may apply in every country. He stressed that prisoners, including Saakashvili, are in conditions that align with European standards. Kadagishvili suggested that improvements, if necessary, would be considered based on the committee's recommendations.