Conflict at Mtavari TV Channel
Opposition-leaning channel Mtavari TV has released a statement accusing its co-founder, Zaza Okuashvili, of shutting down the channel. The statement claims that Okuashvili is following a path similar to the Russian regime.
The channel says that under Okuashvili’s instructions, his appointed director Gogi Kurdadze withheld payments to service providers. This led to the suspension of Mtavari TV’s satellite signal for regional and international audiences. The statement also claims that Kurdadze sent threatening letters to partner companies and barred the use of funds in the channel’s sales account.
The channel warns that starting in early February, its distribution will be further restricted as its signal will be disconnected from many cable television providers. Journalists have faced difficulties conducting live broadcasts due to unpaid fees for equipment services.
Mtavari TV says that Okuashvili and Kurdadze are intentionally damaging the company and shutting down critical media. The channel claims that this is an attempt to serve the interests of the “Georgian Dream” party, which shows signs of criminal activity.
Okuashvili responded to Mtavari TV’s statement on January 30. He claimed that the channel’s accusations coincided with new court hearings in London regarding his legal process against Bidzina Ivanishvili. Okuashvili argued that Gvaramia and Gabunia, who made the statement, are not free in their words because they are Ivanishvili’s hostages due to their illegal financial manipulations.
Okuashvili maintained that Kurdadze’s actions were aimed at ensuring the legal operation of the channel. He revealed that advertising was suspended after Kurdadze exposed alleged money laundering schemes involving the advertising company “New Sales.” Okuashvili called for a new general director who is acceptable to journalists and society.
Rumors about Mtavari TV’s financial difficulties have been circulating for several months. In December, the channel’s General Director Giorgi Gabunia stated that Zaza Okuashvili has decided to shut down Mtavari TV.
Mtavari TV was founded by Nika Gvaramia in September 2019. In May 2020, Gvaramia and Kakhaber Anjaparidze transferred 40% of their shares to companies founded by Okuashvili. On February 28, 2024, Gvaramia stepped down as the channel’s General Director due to his involvement with an opposition party.
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