Georgian authorities have conducted searches at the homes of activists. The Ministry of Internal Affairs stated this action was due to “organizing group violence and group actions.” Transparency International Georgia views it as a sign of a new phase of repression in the country.
Local media reported raids, including at members of the Daitove group, which shares protest information with over 250,000 Facebook followers. These searches are linked to a major protest planned for tomorrow.
The recent phase of open repression began with the arrest of Mzia Amaghlobeli, a founder of Georgian online media outlets Batumelebi and Netgazeti, according to her colleague Irma Dimitradze. Amaghlobeli was arrested on January 11 for posting a pro-European protest poster, released, then rearrested for allegedly attacking a police officer, leading to criminal charges and pretrial detention.
Dimitradze calls it a “politically motivated charge.” Transparency International claims the alleged attack was symbolic and not strong enough to cause harm. Legal experts also argue the charges are disproportionate.
Shortly after, a Batumelebi cameraman was arrested while filming a protest for refusing to unlock his phone. Upon release, his phone’s data was wiped.
Amaghlobeli has been on a hunger strike for 21 days and struggles with walking and speaking, according to her lawyers. Hundreds of journalists have called for her release, asserting she is punished for impartial journalism and exemplary civic activism.
Dimitradze confirms the growing threat to journalists in Georgia, saying each could be next. Amidst concerns for Amaghlobeli, her hunger strike was initially kept secret to dissuade her.
She expressed her belief that stopping the strike would make her complicit in the injustices she opposes. Amaghlobeli sent a letter urging awareness of the media situation in Georgia, drawing parallels with Russia and Belarus.
There are signs of increased media restrictions, including damaged infrastructure and suspicious interference. Dimitradze notes a pattern similar to Russia, where protests are discouraged and actions quickly criminalized.
Protests against the ruling Georgian Dream party have been ongoing for 66 days, with accusations of election fraud. This week, 14 embassies, including the Netherlands, urged Amaghlobeli’s release.
Dimitradze believes oligarch Ivanishvili, who fears losing his wealth, should be pressured through economic measures.
Source: NOS