PM Kobakhidze: UK sanctions on broadcasters aimed at disrupting political debates

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has claimed that recent British sanctions against two Georgian television channels Imedi and POSTV were intended to undermine renewed political debates on national television.

In a statement published on social media on Saturday, Kobakhidze said that recent televised debates had demonstrated what he described as the ruling team’s “clear advantage” over its opponents in both competence and integrity. 

He argued that the outcome of these debates had caused concern among what he referred to as “local foreign-backed agents” and their external supporters.

The official further claimed most opposition representatives have been avoiding participation in debates, which he said reflected their unease.

He suggested that the sanctions imposed by the United Kingdom on Georgian broadcasters should be viewed within this context, alleging that the measures were designed to disrupt the debate process.

Kobakhidze further said that, unlike in previous years, the role of restricting media freedom had allegedly been assumed by “British bureaucracy.” 

He added that, in his view, Georgian society and the state were now stronger and would not allow interference in media pluralism.

The Prime Minister concluded that the public would continue to have access to diverse opinions and the opportunity to make informed decisions regarding the country’s future.