US Ambassador to Georgia Kelly Degnan said she is glad that ex-president Mikheil Saakashvili was allowed to attend his trial as the right to fair court is guaranteed by the Constitution.

“We are very glad that Mr. Saakashvili’s condition allows him to attend today. He is stabilized and he is able to attend his hearing. The United States as well as others called for him to be able to attend if that was his desire, as part of his right to appear at his trial.  That is something that is also enshrined in Georgia’s constitution, that all defendants have a right to a fair trial, including attending in person if they so desire. So, I am glad that he is able to go,” she said.

US Ambassador expressed hope that the ex-president’s supporters gathered outside the courthouse would act responsibly.

“I hope that his supporters will act responsibly. They, of course, have the right to peaceful protest, but the keyword here is peaceful, and I hope that they will not interfere with the administration of justice, which is also important in this scenario,” US Ambassador said.

Ex-president Mikheil Saakashvili attends his trial at the Tbilisi City Court. A panel of three judges will hear today in the November 7 episode. Ex-president Mikheil Saakashvili was convicted in absentia to six years behind bars for several crimes.