The Ministry of Internal Affairs has initiated a case against Davit Kirtadze, a commission member, for pouring black paint on Giorgi Kalandarishvili, the chairman of the Central Election Commission.
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The investigation was initiated under Article 118 of the Criminal Code, which pertains to intentional, less serious injury to health. The crime is punishable by correctional labor for up to eighteen months, house arrest for a period of six months to two years, or imprisonment for two to four years.
"During the summary session of the ongoing elections at the Central Election Commission building, Davit Kirtadze, a representative of the Unity - National Movement, poured an unidentified liquid on Giorgi Kalandarishvili, the Chairman of the Central Election Commission. An investigation is underway, and all relevant investigative actions will be conducted during the course of the inquiry," stated the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
Today, on November 16, the CEC issued the summary protocol of the parliamentary elections. At the beginning of the session, Davit Kirtadze, a commission member from the United National Movement, referred to Giorgi Kalandarishvili as a "black spot" and "the shame of the country," before pouring black liquid on his face. This occurred after Kalandarishvili threatened to expel Kirtadze from the meeting hall for violating the regulations.
"Unfortunately, the Central Election Commission, under your leadership, which we should have rightfully led to Europe, failed to respond to that challenge. Today, under your leadership, with your direct involvement and unfair decisions, our country is moving toward Russia. Today, you have before you a piece of paper that does not reflect the will of our voters."
I cannot even address you as 'Mr. Chairman.' You are Tochka Ru because, to the Georgian people, you are a black spot... the worst chairman," said Davit Kirtadze, addressing Giorgi Kalandarishvili.
The Chairman of the CEC did not allow him to finish his speech, explaining that the two minutes allotted by the regulations had expired. "Come on, go by yourself. Don't make me expel you myself," the CEC chairman told Kirtadze. At that moment, Davit Kirtadze poured black liquid from a glass taken from the table onto his face.
Swearing ensued after the incident. As a result, the session was halted. Giorgi Kalandarishvili returned to the meeting hall in a daze and described Kirtadze's action as a "provocation."
According to Davit Kirtadze, Giorgi Kalandarishvili was doused with "ordinary black paint."
