Saakashvili tells court he is innocent of all criminal charges against him

TBILISI. July 3 (Interfax) - Georgia's ex-president Mikheil Saakashvili attended a court hearing in the case against him, regarding the dispersal of a peaceful opposition rally on November 7, 2007, and the attack on the Imedi TV company the same day, by video conference from his ward in the Vivamedi clinic on Monday.

He said that he is not guilty of the charge and the other criminal charges made against him.

"Why is a totally innocent person being held behind bars? I did not commit the crimes I am charged with," Saakashvili said.

He also said his imprisonment "will not break" him, and that he will continue his political struggle to replace the incumbent Georgian administration.

"I intend to actively participate in political processes in Georgia. We will definitely replace the current administration and will prevent civil strife," Saakashvili said, emphasizing that he is proud to be a citizen of Ukraine.

He suggested to the administration that a public discussion take place in which the people of Georgia will offer their judgment.

The court hearing continues.