Nika Melia
SentencedArticle 349 – Commission refusal. Article 366(2) – Disrespect toward court. Article 318(1) – Sabotage.
Case Details
Nika Melia was summoned to testify before Tea Tsulukiani's investigative commission on April 11, 2025. He didn't attend. On May 29, he was detained — states he was 'abducted,' forced into a van with 11 others, phone taken by force, car cameras smashed. On May 30, sentenced to 8 months. He threw water at Judge Irakli Shvangiradze, resulting in an additional 1.5 years for 'insulting' the judge. In November 2025, charged with sabotage. In February 2026, another charge of contempt toward Judge Tornike Kochkiani was filed.
Defense Arguments
Detention described as abduction. Charges politically motivated.
Procedural Issues
Abducted — forced into van, phone taken, car cameras smashed. Judge Kochkiani made no comment about alleged insult at the time.
Personal Background
One of the leaders of the Coalition for Change. Opposition politician.