The judicial system of “Georgian Dream” continues its repressive policy against independent media and creates additional obstacles for journalists who want to fully cover court processes.
According to the information disseminated by the media, on October 17, the Department of Common Courts signed a contract worth 91,700 Gel with “Ave” LLC, based on which hundreds of mobile phones equipped with locks will be installed in Tbilisi City, Appeal, and other courts (19 courts in total).
The purchase is based on an ordinance passed in the summer of this year that mandates not allowing mobile phones and other devices to be used in courtrooms. If this rule is applied to journalists, it will further restrict journalists’ ability to collect or publish information.
The judicial authority, which is supposed to guarantee justice, has become a symbol of injustice under the influence of the “Georgian Dream,” where the law no longer protects, but pursues. Journalists and activists are often the targets of pressure, persecution, and violence implemented by the courts and the “Georgian Dream”.
Mzia Amaglobeli, the director of “Netgazeti” and “Batumi”, is a political prisoner under the conditions of the governance of “Georgian Dream”, and the court acts as a criminal in this persecution.
Furthermore, the representatives of the judicial media have also become the place of physical violence and insult. Violence against media and activists remains unpunished – no investigations are being carried out.
Restricting media coverage of court hearings not only grossly violates journalists’ rights but also deprives the public of being informed about how justice is being done.
The Coalition for Media Advocacy stands with the Georgia journalists who continue to work every day, in hostile environments, to protect the truth and public interest. Oppression and attack on them is a direct attack on democracy and society’s right to know the truth.
