The Media Advocacy Coalition responds to the judgment issued by Judge Tornike Kochkiani regarding Formula TV anchor and journalist Vakho Sanaia, under which he was sentenced to 30 days of administrative detention over a post published on social media.
This decision represents another alarming example of pressure exerted on journalistic activity and freedom of expression. This marks the third administrative offence case initiated against Vakho Sanaia for a social media post, which-against the backdrop of the previously imposed 14-day detention and a 6,000-GEL fine-clearly points to a dangerous trend of targeting critical media and dissenting views.
Using the justice system to silence critical voices and punish journalists violates fundamental principles of democracy and poses a direct threat to freedom of speech and the press in the country.
The Media Advocacy Coalition expresses its full solidarity with Vakho Sanaia, the Formula TV team, and every journalist who continues to serve the public faithfully despite growing pressure and repressive tactics.
