Mzia Amaglobeli, a prominent Georgian journalist and founder of news outlets Batumelebi and Netgazeti, finds herself at the center of a contentious legal battle, sparking widespread concerns about press freedom and the increasing political tensions within Georgia. Arrested on January 12th for allegedly slapping Batumi’s police chief, Irakli Dgebuadze, Amaglobeli faces charges of assaulting a police officer, a crime punishable by up to seven years in prison. While authorities portray the incident as a straightforward assault, her supporters and international observers argue that the charges are politically motivated, a reprisal for her critical journalism and activism against the ruling Georgian Dream party. Amaglobeli’s arrest coincides with ongoing protests against the government, sparked by contested elections in October and the subsequent suspension of EU accession talks. Amaglobeli’s coverage of these protests, particularly her reporting on police violence against demonstrators, has made her a target of the authorities, her supporters claim.
The incident leading to Amaglobeli’s re-arrest began with her posting a sticker advertising a protest at a police station. Though initially released, she was detained again later that evening following an altercation with Dgebuadze. While video footage of the alleged slap exists, observers from organizations like Transparency International Georgia contend that the act was symbolic and lacked the force to warrant criminal charges. However, authorities have not only detained Amaglobeli but also denied her bail, keeping her in pre-trial detention, which can last up to nine months in Georgia. Amaglobeli has detailed allegations of mistreatment during her detention, claiming she was denied basic necessities like water and toilet access, and even subjected to spitting by Dgebuadze. These accusations have spurred an investigation by Georgia’s Special Investigation Service.
Beyond the immediate circumstances of her arrest, Amaglobeli’s case highlights broader concerns about the state of democracy and free press in Georgia. The ruling Georgian Dream party, under the alleged influence of billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili, is accused of increasingly authoritarian tactics, mirroring those employed by Russia. Critics argue that the party is turning away from the West, stifling dissent, and implementing restrictive laws aimed at silencing independent media and civil society groups. One such law, dubbed the “Russia law” by critics, requires NGOs and media outlets receiving significant foreign funding to register as agents of foreign powers, subjecting them to increased government scrutiny and raising fears of censorship. Amaglobeli herself expressed concern about this law and its potential impact on free speech.
Adding to the complexity of the situation is Amaglobeli’s ongoing hunger strike, a desperate measure taken to protest her detention and assert the importance of freedom of expression. This hunger strike, lasting for over two weeks, has significantly deteriorated her health, raising serious concerns about her well-being. Human rights organizations like the Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) have warned that her life is in danger and have urged the prison authorities to ensure her safety and medical attention. The international community, including the Council of Europe’s Commissioner for Human Rights, has also expressed concern, calling for Amaglobeli’s release from pre-trial detention.
The backdrop of Amaglobeli’s case is a politically turbulent Georgia, marked by contested elections, widespread protests, and accusations of government overreach. The October 2022 elections, in which Georgian Dream claimed victory amidst accusations of fraud, sparked protests and a government crackdown. The situation escalated further with the government’s decision to suspend EU accession talks, a move interpreted as a shift towards Russia. These events have created a climate of fear and uncertainty, with reports of hundreds of protestors arrested, journalists beaten, and opposition figures attacked. Critics argue that the Georgian government, under the sway of Ivanishvili, is implementing a repressive agenda, undermining democratic institutions and suppressing dissent.
Amaglobeli’s case has become a rallying point for press freedom advocates and critics of the Georgian government. Her detention, coupled with her deteriorating health due to her hunger strike, has garnered international attention. Over 300 Georgian journalists, international media organizations, Nobel laureate Maria Ressa, and the Council of Europe have all spoken out in support of Amaglobeli, demanding her release and calling for an investigation into the charges against her. They argue that her arrest is a clear example of the Georgian government’s efforts to silence critical voices and stifle independent journalism. The international community continues to monitor the situation, urging the Georgian authorities to respect freedom of expression and ensure Amaglobeli receives proper medical care. Her case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for democratic values and press freedom in Georgia.
