The founder of Batumelebi and Netgazeti, Mzia Amaglobeli, has rejected the charges against her, calling the case “falsified” during her trial at Batumi City Court on Thursday.
Amaglobeli was detained on January 11 in Batumi for assaulting a police official, during protests against the Government’s decision late last year to halt EU integration until 2028.
“I want to tell you that the case you are considering is falsified. The protocol is also falsified. I have not committed any illegal actions,” Amaglobeli said, addressing the court remotely.
She insisted that her arrest was unlawful, saying “I really put up the sticker with complete understanding. I have not committed any illegal actions, and there were no calls [to insult someone]. There was also talk that I verbally abused police officers – this is also a lie. They simply
will not find any footage or witnesses who can confirm this.”
Her trial was being closely watched by international observers, with representatives from the Norwegian and Danish embassies present at the hearing.
At today’s session, the judge is expected to decide whether to summon Batumi Police Chief Irakli Dgebuadze and Adjara Police Department Chief Grigol Beselia for questioning.
The case has sparked criticism from media freedom advocates, who view it as part of a wider crackdown on independent journalism in Georgia.
