UNM’s Ana Tsitlidze: We need people outside in this struggle rather than in prison; seeking a plea bargain is their right, and I see no disgrace in it

“Entering into a plea bargain agreement represents a pragmatic tactical step to secure release from prison, and there is no shame in pursuing such a strategy,” United National Movement (UNM) member Ana Tsitlidze stated on Monday, stressing that individuals are urgently needed on the front lines outside to fight for the country’s freedom.

Her comments follow announcements by convicted 4 October case defendants Murtaz Zodelava and Lasha Beridze during an appeal hearing at the Tbilisi Court of Appeals, where both men publicly requested plea agreements with the Prosecutor’s Office.

“It is up to each individual to decide what course of action to take and which opportunity to seize. One can use this tactic with no hesitation. I encourage anyone who wishes to pursue a plea bargain to do so if the opportunity exists, because a plea deal will put these people back on the streets. In this overarching struggle, we need people outside rather than behind bars,” Tsitlidze said.

“I see no justification whatsoever for directing criticism or arrows where some are currently firing them. The events of 4 October marked a day of resistance and unity. These individuals are freedom fighters. Choosing the tactic of securing a plea deal is entirely their right, and I see nothing blameworthy in it. The fight for our country’s liberty against the Russian oligarch will unequivocally go on,” she continued.

“Any tactical manoeuvre against the regime, be it a plea bargain or any other avenue allowing individuals unjustly held captive as political prisoners to escape jail, regain their freedom, and fight, is fully legitimate and welcome. It is entirely up to the individual. I know some prisoners who have chosen not to take this route yet, just as I know those who have gone ahead and agreed to a deal. I respect both stances completely. To be crystal clear: I see no disgrace in leveraging this mechanism; on the contrary, this struggle demands free people on the outside, and we must deploy every possible tool against the regime,” Tsitlidze added.

The Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia confirmed earlier that Zodelava and Beridze, who were convicted of attempted group seizure of strategic facilities, organising group violence, and public calls for the violent overthrow of state authority, had formally submitted applications admitting guilt and expressing contrition. Prosecutor’s Office has promised to disclose its decision on the plea bargains to the public as soon as it makes its formal determination.

On 7 May, the court of first instance sentenced both Zodelava and Beridze to seven years’ imprisonment.