**Georgia’s Revenue Service Seizes Bank Accounts of Independent Media Outlet**
In a move that has raised concerns about the country’s deteriorating media landscape, Georgia’s Revenue Service has seized the bank accounts of online media outlet Batumelebi/Netgazeti. The seizure was carried out on July 17 through an incasso order, with the official reason given as the collection of outstanding tax debt.
However, Batumelebi claims that this is a deliberate attempt to shut down the media organization and break its founder, Mzia Amaghlobeli. The outlet notes that the bank levy comes just a week before a court is expected to deliver a verdict in Ms. Amaghlobeli’s case, where she faces four to seven years in prison for slapping the Batumi police chief.
**Tax Debt or Political Motive?**
The tax debt totals GEL 47,000 (about USD 17,300), down from GEL 136,000 earlier in July when the Revenue Service informed Batumelebi it had to cover the debt within five days. In addition to the principal amount, the debt includes accrued interest and penalties. However, Batumelebi claims that its debt was formally acknowledged and has been paid off in regular installments.
The outlet argues that this is a telling example of selective pressure, pointing out that pro-government TV stations Imedi and Rustavi 2 owe far larger sums – GEL 17 million and GEL 25 million, respectively – to the state budget. This suggests that the targeting of Batumelebi may be politically motivated rather than driven by concerns over tax debt.
**Worrying Trend for Independent Media**
The seizure of Batumelebi’s bank accounts comes amid an intensified crackdown on critical media in Georgia. Several laws restricting foreign funding sources for media outlets have been adopted, and two other media outlets – Radio Tbilisi and Trialeti TV – have also had their accounts seized by authorities through debt levying.
This trend is a cause for concern not only for Batumelebi but also for the broader media landscape in Georgia. As the country’s media environment becomes increasingly restrictive, it raises questions about the future of independent journalism and the ability of outlets like Batumelebi to continue operating without fear of reprisal.
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