The Public Defender of Georgia has released a statement about the reports about alleged sexual and physical abuse committed by a member of Tbilisi City Assembly against his assistant. According to the statement, the Public Defender"s Office requested information from the law enforcement agency and will monitor the investigation of the case.

“Given the seriousness and sensitivity of the case, the Public Defender calls on the Prosecutor General"s Office of Georgia to conduct effective investigation. It is also important to eliminate doubts about biased investigation.

In addition, the public should remember that many women in Georgia suffer from violence, oppression and harassment. It is essential for them to be supported by the community in order to be able to speak out and defend their rights. Unfortunately, in the given case, some representatives of the society are less sympathetic towards the alleged victim and spread degrading information about her, which is unacceptable. The active involvement of all relevant agencies in protecting the alleged victim is crucial”, reads the statement.

According to the Public Defender’s Office, they will monitor the investigation and will closely communicate with the alleged victim and her lawyer.