In the heart of Georgia, journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli is facing a dire situation as she endures a hunger strike that has now stretched into its third week. Her health is rapidly deteriorating, with difficulties even in walking to meet her lawyer. Arrested on January 12 during protests in Batumi, Amaghlobeli is among over 40 individuals jailed due to the escalating political unrest following a controversial parliamentary election believed to be rigged in favor of the ruling Georgian Dream party.
The party’s tightened grip on power has resulted in a crackdown reminiscent of actions taken by President Putin in Russia. As Georgia’s aspirations to join the European Union wane, the ruling party has imposed stringent laws restricting media and LGBTQ+ rights, sparking widespread protests condemned by the EU. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has characterized the demonstrators as attempting to incite a revolution, further igniting tensions within the country.
Amaghlobeli faces severe charges, including assaulting a police officer, which could lead to a lengthy prison term. Reports from other detained protesters reveal that police brutality is rampant, with many claiming abusive treatment in custody. U.N. human rights experts have sounded alarms over the government’s heavy-handed response to demonstrations, emphasizing the peaceful nature of most protests.
A disturbing video surfaced showing Amaghlobeli’s altercation with Batumi’s police chief, a reaction to prior abuse according to witnesses. Her attorney highlighted instances of abuse, including denial of basic needs. Although the Ministry of Interior claims to be investigating, the government has shown little accountability, with the Prime Minister dismissing accusations of police brutality as baseless.
Mzia’s alarming state has galvanized attention from both Georgian and international human rights advocates. Michael O’Flaherty from the Council of Europe remarked on the urgent need for action, framing Mzia’s plight as a matter of life and death. The chilling implications of her arrest extend to other journalists, creating a climate of fear that stifles independent media in Georgia.
Another prominent figure, actor Andro Chichinadze, faces charges linked to recent protests, highlighting the government’s broad crackdown on dissent. His mother’s profound disbelief in the accusations reflects the growing frustration among families of those targeted. Amidst calls for harsher penalties for protest-related offenses, experts warn that the government appears to mirror oppressive tactics used in Russia and Belarus against civic activists.
Mzia Amaghlobeli, a journalist in Georgia, is on a hunger strike amid a crackdown on dissent following controversial elections. Over 40 people have been jailed, and reports of police brutality are rising. Prime Minister Kobakhidze accuses protesters of attempting a revolution, while international human rights advocates express urgent concerns for Amaghlobeli’s life and the chilling effect on independent media in the country.
Georgia is currently navigating a perilous political landscape, with increasing repression of dissent reminiscent of Russia’s approach under Putin. The alarming situation of jailed journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli highlights the dire consequences of government crackdowns on protest and freedom of expression. As international human rights organizations raise concerns, the ongoing turmoil poses challenging questions about Georgia’s future direction, its desire to align with European standards, and the preservation of fundamental rights.
Original Source: www.whec.com
