Concerns Rise over Detained Former Georgian President Saakashvili’s Health Following TV Appearance
Former Georgian president Mikheil Saakashvili, who has been detained on abuse of power charges, appeared on television looking frail and emaciated, raising serious concerns about his treatment and well-being. The images of the 55-year-old politician, once known for his robust figure, sparked alarm and prompted Ukraine, where Saakashvili holds citizenship, to summon the Georgian ambassador for assistance in “saving” Saakashvili.
Saakashvili, who served as the leader of Georgia from 2004 to 2013, was imprisoned after his return from exile in connection with charges that Human Rights Groups claim are politically motivated. Medical professionals have warned that Saakashvili’s health is at risk, citing conditions he has developed while in custody, although Georgian authorities assert that he is receiving adequate medical care.
During a court hearing conducted via video link for the abuse of office charges, Saakashvili revealed his deteriorated physical state, exposing his ribs protruding from his chest, a hollow abdomen, and visibly frail physique. He vehemently maintained his innocence, declaring that he had not committed any crimes. Saakashvili is currently being held at a civilian hospital, where he was transferred last year following a 50-day hunger strike protesting his detention.
Despite his incarceration, Saakashvili vowed to remain actively involved in Georgian politics, asserting that imprisonment would not break him. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who granted Saakashvili Ukrainian citizenship in 2019, called for his transfer to a clinic in Ukraine or the West. Zelenskyy requested Georgia to hand over Saakashvili and emphasized the urgency of saving the detained politician. In response, Ukraine plans to hold consultations with the Georgian ambassador, who may be asked to leave the country.
The situation surrounding Saakashvili’s health has drawn international attention and condemnation. Human rights groups and doctors, including US-based medical experts, have expressed concern about his deteriorating health and have called for his immediate transfer to a medical facility abroad. Saakashvili, who has lost approximately 60kg while in prison, was examined by multiple medical groups who concluded that his declining health was a result of mistreatment and alleged torture in custody.
The European Union and the United States have urged Georgia to ensure proper medical treatment for Saakashvili and to protect his rights. Amnesty International has denounced his treatment as an act of “apparent political revenge.” The case of Saakashvili highlights broader concerns about human rights and political freedom in the region.
