**Journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli’s Verdict to Be Announced on August 6**
A Georgian court has scheduled the next hearing in the case of journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli, who is being tried for allegedly assaulting a police officer during a protest. The verdict will be announced on August 6.
Amaghlobeli, the founder of two online outlets, Batumelebi and Netgazeti, was remanded in custody after slapping the head of Batumi Police, Irakli Dgebuadze, during a tense night of protests and arrests. She faces up to 7 years in prison if convicted.
**Journalist Rejects Plea Bargain**
In her final remarks on August 4, Amaghlobeli rejected a plea bargain offered by prosecutors. She argued that accepting the deal would require her to plead guilty to a disproportionate criminal charge. The journalist described the offer as “deeply offensive” and likened it to being “buried alive.”
Amaghlobeli’s defense team has consistently argued that she did not attack the police officer, but rather slapped him in self-defense during a chaotic night of protests. The journalist has maintained her innocence throughout the trial.
**Widespread Support for Amaghlobeli**
The case has drawn widespread attention both locally and internationally. Critics see it as an attempt to silence and punish independent media. Supporters have gathered outside the courthouse, including family members, colleagues, activists, politicians, diplomats, and even Georgia’s fifth president, Salome Zurabishvili.
Many have traveled long distances to attend the trial, despite the challenges of accessing Batumi from other parts of the country. Amaghlobeli herself has been transported from Rustavi, a six-hour drive away, where she is being held at a penitentiary facility.
**Freedom of Speech at Stake**
The case has sparked concerns about freedom of speech and the government’s treatment of independent media. Amaghlobeli’s lawyer, Maia Mtsariashvili, described the trial as a “mirror” of how the government abuses power and tries to silence critics.
“This is not justice,” Mtsariashvili said during her remarks on August 1. “Mzia Amaghlobeli’s case is one that will be discussed by generations.”
The verdict in Amaghlobeli’s case has significant implications for freedom of speech and the rule of law in Georgia.
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