Tbilisi: The Non-Government Organisation “Media Advocacy Coalition” condemned the ruling regime “Georgian Dream”. NGO condemns GD for misuse of the tragedy of Ukrainian people for political gains.
In a social media post the NGO stated, “This is sad to see said that Georgian Dream is misusing Ukrainian people’s problem to fulfill their political aspirations. This is a direct threat to democracy and we strongly condemn it as a responsible organisation working to protect the democratic values of Georgia.”
It is worth noting that as per the NGO “The direction from GD to show the political advertisement of “Georgian Dream” to independent media outlets, which includes the main channel, TV First and TV Company Formula is not only a gross violation of media freedom but also a violation of ethical journalism.”
As per the representative of the Georgian people the propaganda of the ruling party “Georgian Dream” which undermines the dignity of the Ukrainian people is another attempt to suppress critical voices in the media.
At the same time the threat of heavy fines is an alarming tactic to compel the media to conform and propagate a narrative of the ruling party. This is unfair, being fundamentally opposite to the values of democracy and human rights in the country and the entire Caucasus region.
While extending their full support to the media houses an NGO official said “The Media Advocacy Coalition stands in solidarity with independent media outlets in the country working to protect democratic values. The heavy pressure exerted on the media reflects the disturbing trend of growing authoritarianism and neglect of democratic values in Georgia.”
While criticising the government they outlined, the coalition shares the sentiment expressed in the assessment of the EU ambassador to Georgia and condemns this campaign as outrageous, shameful, and appalling.
As Georgia is set to conduct a parliamentary election late this month, many opposition parties blame the ruling party for misuse of power. They also allege that media houses are being compelled to propagate the false agenda of the Georgian Dream.
