**Georgia’s Crackdown on Critics: A New Low**
On July 9, the Zugdidi District Court took a troubling step in Georgia’s ongoing crackdown on government critics. Activist Rosto Zarandia was sent to five days of administrative detention for a Facebook comment that was deemed “insulting” towards a city hall employee.
The case marks the first known instance of detention for an “insult” on social media, while dozens of Georgian Dream critics have been fined for similar acts. In February, the Georgian Dream parliament made insulting public officials and civil servants an administrative offense, which has been applied to social media activities through court practice.
Zarandia’s comment was in the Megrelian language, calling city hall employee Magdalina Todua “Tvinge” (meaning “stupid”) and “Poncho”. While some may see this as a harmless jest, the judge ruled it an insult. This decision highlights the increasingly repressive atmosphere in Georgia, where critics of the government are being targeted for even the mildest forms of dissent.
The case comes amid a continued crackdown on GD government critics, who are being fined or jailed for days for a number of controversial acts. In February, activist Diana Gogoladze was fined 2,500 GEL (around $920 USD) over a Facebook comment directed at a police officer. Just last week, activist Alki Kordzaia was sent to five days in detention over a verbal confrontation with a police officer who had given false testimony in the case of 21-year-old activist Mate Devidze.
**A Pattern of Repression**
The Georgian Dream government’s tactics have been clear: suppress dissent and criticism through arbitrary arrests, fines, and detentions. The use of administrative offenses to silence critics is a particularly insidious tool, as it allows the authorities to bypass due process and target individuals without trial or appeal.
As Georgia’s civil society organizations and media outlets have pointed out, these tactics are part of a broader effort to suppress free speech and stifle opposition. The government’s attempts to criminalize dissent will only serve to further polarize society and undermine trust in institutions.
**The Need for Action**
In the face of this creeping authoritarianism, it is essential that Georgia’s international partners and human rights organizations speak out against these abuses. The use of administrative offenses to silence critics is a clear infringement on fundamental rights and freedoms. It is time for the government to reconsider its approach and prioritize respect for democratic principles.
**Also Read:**
* Georgian Dream to Sue Critics Over “Insults” on Social Media (06/06/2025)
* Politicians, Journalists, Activists Summoned to Court Over Social Media “Insults” to GD MPs (12/06/2025)
* Court Sends Students to 12-Day Detention for Allegedly Insulting MP (31/05/2025)
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