In a concerning turn of events in Georgia, jailed journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli, who has entered her third week on a hunger strike, is reportedly deteriorating in health, facing difficulty even walking short distances. According to her lawyer, there are rising fears for her life as she remains incarcerated following her arrest during an anti-government protest in Batumi on January 12, part of growing civil unrest in the country. Over 40 others also face criminal charges linked to recent demonstrations.
Georgia’s turbulent political landscape deepened following parliamentary elections, leading to assertions of a rigged vote by opposition parties, thus tightening the ruling Georgian Dream party’s grip on power. Reports of a Russia-like crackdown on press freedoms and public protests draw parallels to actions by President Vladimir Putin in Russia, as Georgia’s aspirations for EU membership face significant setbacks due to these oppressive measures.
Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has staunchly defended the government’s actions against demonstrators, accusing them of attempting a revolutionary coup similar to Ukraine’s 2014 uprising. Georgian Dream has implemented draconian laws reminiscent of Russian restrictions on media, rights groups, and LGBTQ+ individuals. Amaghlobeli, who founded significant independent outlets, is charged with police assault, bearing potential incarceration of up to seven years.
Reports indicate that many detainees have experienced police abuse, both during arrest and in custody. Alice Jill Edwards, the U.N. special rapporteur on torture, expressed deep concern, stating, “All of that paints a picture of an aggressive campaign to halt these demonstrations of which the large majority are reported to have been peaceful.” Video evidence captures Amaghlobeli reacting to alleged police mistreatment, further fueling calls for justice.
Amaghlobeli’s hunger strike has garnered significant attention from human rights advocates, with concerns raised about her life. Michael O’Flaherty of the Council of Europe stressed the urgency of her situation, stating, “This is not just a matter of freedom and imprisonment – this is a matter of life and death.” The chilling effect of Amaghlobeli’s arrest has permeated the journalistic community, igniting fears over freedom of the press in Georgia.
The ongoing crackdown has also ensnared other prominent figures, including actor Andro Chichinadze, arrested for participating in protests. Despite prosecutors’ claims, including video footage, defense lawyers highlight the lack of evidence against him. Chichinadze’s mother describes the situation as absurd, revealing the growing sentiment of hopelessness among citizens amidst the government’s actions.
As protests persist, authorities have ramped up arrests under minor charges, with many alleging police brutality during the detainment process. Georgian Dream’s recent announcement of intensified penalties for protest-related offenses signals a troubling escalation in their approach to dissent, echoing tactics seen in Russia and Belarus against civic activists. Observers note a perceived betrayal of Georgia’s European aspirations, feeling increasingly drawn back into Russia’s sphere of influence.
Amid protests in Georgia, journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli faces dire health consequences during a hunger strike after her arrest. Over 40 individuals have been jailed, reflecting a crackdown on dissent reminiscent of Russian policies. Widespread reports of police abuse are alarming, drawing condemnation from human rights officials. The government’s actions against protesters are seen as increasingly authoritarian, jeopardizing Georgia’s aim for EU integration.
The ongoing suppression of dissent in Georgia, illustrated by Mzia Amaghlobeli’s dire circumstances and a broader crackdown on protests, raises critical concerns about human rights and freedom of expression in the country. As the government tightens its grip, fears grow that Georgia’s democratic aspirations are being undermined, echoing authoritarian tactics seen in neighboring Russia. Public outcry and international attention remain vital to addressing these human rights violations.
Original Source: www.thespec.com
