11:45, 19 December 2003

Persecution of oppositionists in Batumi

Reports appeared on December 17 that activists of the National Movement's local branch had been beaten in Batumi and its local leader, Giya Masalkin, had left Adjaria from political considerations.

Mr. Masalkin denies this information, saying he has left Batumi because of other reasons. However, he confirms that two activists of the National Movement have been beaten. "If the developments continue in such a way, I will have to get my family out of Batumi," Giya Masalkin stated.

The republican interior ministry has no information concerning the beating yet. The hearsay has arisen in Batumi recently that Kmara activists appeared in the town, but it has no real grounds. Though local young people - students for the most part - are engaged in the collection of signatures from people who support the presidential election.

The letter begins with an appeal to Burdjanadze and Abashidze. Adjaria is and will be a part of Georgia, it reads. There are demands in the document to strengthen democratic values in Adjaria and to hold the transparent presidential election on January 4.

Source: Abkhazia Info Website