Saakashvili to Melia: We are literally one cell apart in prison; any misunderstanding could be solved here

“My post of November 2 neither mentioned nor implied Nika Melia. There was nothing similar to what Nika is talking about,” Georgia’s jailed ex-President Mikheil Saakashvili responded on social media to recent remarks by Nika Melia, leader of the Coalition for Change.

He urged political unity during what he described as a critical moment for the country.

“As for Nika Melia’s statement, my post of November 2 neither mentioned nor implied anything related to what he is talking about. The same applies to my other friend, Nika Gvaramia. I deeply appreciate both Nikas for their long-standing struggle, a struggle for which they paid a high price through two political imprisonments. Their most recent imprisonment resulted from taking a dignified stance regarding the so-called treason commission.

At a time when we have no common enemy already defeated and face unprecedented challenges, unity is the only solution. Attacking one another now would be a grave mistake. The country needs to be saved, and history will not forgive us if we allow personal emotions and competing egos to dictate our actions at this crucial moment.

My post three weeks ago had one purpose: to warn against the involvement of the Gilauri clan or any other business groups associated with Ivanishvili in politics. I stand firmly by that position. After our victory, we must adopt legislation to prevent oligarchs from entering politics — and I remind everyone that I was one of the co-authors of a similar law adopted in Ukraine.

I want to emphasise once again: unity has no alternative. The Rose Revolution prevailed precisely because leaders with different backgrounds and views stood together. I am glad that representatives of the parties made reserved and thoughtful comments regarding this latest misunderstanding.

And finally, my dear Nika — we are not just “in the same space”; we are literally one cell apart, on the third floor of this prison. We could have clarified any misunderstanding even here.

Freedom for Nika Melia and for all political prisoners,” Saakashvili wrote.

For reference, during a recent court hearing, Nika Melia stated: “One of the politicians called me a bribed and compromised person from Ivanishvili. I cannot stand next to such people.” Melia was referring to Saakashvili.