The Batumi City Court is expected to deliver a verdict today in the controversial criminal case against Mzia Amaglobeli, prominent journalist and founder of Batumelebi and Netgazeti. The final hearing, scheduled for 1:00 PM, will include Amaglobeli’s closing statement before the court.
Amaglobeli is facing charges under Article 353 of the Criminal Code, which pertains to attacking a law enforcement officer — a charge that carries a sentence of 4 to 7 years in prison. The prosecution alleges that she slapped the head of Batumi Police, Irakli Dgebuadze, during a protest on January 11, in front of the Batumi Police Department.
Based on the investigation, Amaglobeli was initially detained for administrative reasons during the protest and released about two hours later. However, she was re-arrested minutes after her release following the alleged physical altercation with the police official.
Court Hearings and Public Response
The case has sparked significant public interest and concern, with widespread condemnation from civil society, media freedom advocates, and opposition figures, who argue that the proceedings represent a targeted attack on independent journalism.
At earlier hearings, Amaglobeli’s defense team argued that the case lacks a solid legal foundation and is rooted in political motives, pointing to her long-standing role in critical media. The courtroom has seen strong public support, with numerous journalists and activists attending the sessions in solidarity.
In a statement during a previous hearing, Amaglobeli reaffirmed her innocence and framed the case as a reflection of broader pressures against free media in Georgia.
Ex-President’s Support and Ongoing Protests
Georgia’s fifth President Salome Zurabishvili has publicly expressed her support for Amaglobeli, calling her “a symbol of Georgia” and urging the court to uphold justice. Zurabishvili has attended the hearings and posted messages on social media, declaring: “Today, we are Mzia! Her freedom is our freedom.”
Meanwhile, supporters have gathered outside the Batumi City Court, staging a peaceful protest and calling for Amaglobeli’s acquittal.
The verdict, expected later today, could have significant implications for press freedom and civil rights in Georgia.
