Former Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili has been sentenced to nine years in prison after being found guilty of embezzling state funds. The verdict, delivered on March 11, marks the latest chapter in the tumultuous political career of the ex-president, who has been embroiled in legal battles and controversies since leaving office.

According to Georgian media outlet Mtavari Arxi, Saakashvili was convicted of embezzling approximately $3.2 million in what has been referred to as the “suits and bouquets” case. Prosecutors accused him of misappropriating state funds for personal expenses, including designer suits, coats, luxury watches, and even cosmetic procedures. Additionally, Saakashvili allegedly used government money to finance his son’s education, rent expensive vehicles, and charter private planes.

The court also ruled against Teimuraz Janashia, Saakashvili’s former head of security, who was convicted but received a comparatively lenient penalty-a fine of 3,000 lari (approximately $1,000). The decision underscores the severity of the charges against Saakashvili, as he faces a near-decade-long sentence behind bars.

Saakashvili’s legal problems date back to 2014 when he was first charged with embezzlement, shortly after leaving Georgia. His tenure as president (2004-2013) was marked by a mix of democratic reforms and accusations of authoritarianism, particularly his handling of political dissent and opposition movements. He fled Georgia after his second term ended, fearing prosecution from his successors.

The former president’s return to Georgia........

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