The Media Advocacy Coalition condemns financial pressure applied by Georgian Dream on the newspaper “Batumelebi.” Placing an incasso order on independent media accounts is not a routine financial measure; rather, it appears to be an attempt to repress and silence independent journalism.
The case of “Batumelebi” is part of a broader systematic campaign orchestrated by Georgian Dream against independent media outlets. Mzia Amaghlobeli, founder of “Batumelebi” and “Netgazeti,” has been unlawfully imprisoned for over six months and is Georgia’s first female political prisoner. The seizure of Batumelebi account represents yet another form of pressure aimed at crushing her, as a symbol of resistance against the regime of the Georgian Dream.
Georgian Dream has used similar methods against other media entities, such as Radio Holding “Hereti” and regional broadcaster “Trialeti.” “Hereti,” which operates three radio stations—”Tbilisi,” “Hereti” in Kakheti, and “Citrus” in Batumi—reported that incasso orders were placed on their bank accounts at the Revenue Service’s request. According to founder Ramaz Samkharadze, this attack appears to be retaliation for their critical coverage of current events.
While independent media face these aggressive tactics, larger outlets controlled by Georgian Dream, such as “Imedi” and “Rustavi 2,” owe significant sums to the Revenue Service—17 and 25 million GEL respectively,
Recent measures, including the adoption of repressive laws, court closures, unjustified fines, and other restrictions are aimed at limiting access to information, silencing dissent, and suppressing independent voices.
What is occurring today represents a direct assault on our fundamental rights: the right to be informed, to access a diversity of opinions, to freely express our views and make informed decisions.
The Media Advocacy Coalition stands insolidarity with independent media resisting repressive regime of the Georgian Dream.
