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The News in Brief

Wednesday, January 29, 2025
Prepared by Messenger Staff

Doctors Urge Immediate Medical Access to Mzia Amaghlobeli Amid Hunger Strike

Doctors in Adjara have raised urgent concerns over the health of Mzia Amaghlobeli, who has been on a hunger strike for 17 days in prison. At a special briefing, they warned that continued fasting without food could lead to severe, life-threatening health complications.

The doctors explained that after 17 days of drinking only water, Amaghlobeli's body is in a critically low energy state, heightening the risk of organ failure, particularly in the heart, kidneys, and liver. They warned that brain function could weaken, potentially leading to loss of consciousness, coma, or even death. Electrolyte imbalances may cause heart arrhythmias, muscle spasms, and other serious issues, while her immune system becomes increasingly vulnerable to infections.

The doctors also highlighted the potential for mental health problems such as depression and aggression. They stressed that while Amaghlobeli's life might still be saved, irreversible health damage is becoming a significant concern.

In their statement, the doctors demanded immediate medical access to Mzia Amaghlobeli: "Our demand is that reliable, qualified, multidisciplinary doctors, whether in a consilium or in another form, immediately be allowed to see Mzia Amaghlobeli. Each of us standing here is ready to see Mzia Amaghlobeli, following the appropriate protocol. Freedom for Mzia! Freedom for political prisoners! Freedom to Georgia from dictatorship!"



EU Ambassador Urges Action Amid Georgia's Deepening Political Crisis

EU Ambassador to Georgia Pawel Herczynski condemned Georgia's ongoing political crisis, highlighting human rights violations, violence, and a loss of trust in the judicial system. He emphasized that the EU is working on sanctions against those responsible but noted that unanimity among EU member states is still lacking.

Herczynski pointed out that despite Georgia being granted EU candidate status, relations have worsened. He stressed the importance of Georgia's authorities engaging with citizens to address the political crisis and fulfill their European aspirations.

The EU recently suspended visa liberalization for Georgian officials and is considering personal sanctions for those involved in repression and violence. Herczynski clarified that these measures are meant to target responsible individuals, not the Georgian people.

The Ambassador expressed outrage over the case of journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli, who has been on hunger strike while facing pre-trial detention. He criticized the lack of accountability for those responsible for violence against journalists and protesters.

Protests have continued for over two months, with no action taken against those responsible for the violence. Herczynski called out the government for its refusal to listen to the people, urging them to seek a resolution to the crisis.

Despite the crisis, Herczynski praised the resilience of the Georgian people and their commitment to a European future. He reiterated EU support for Georgia's democratic values, warning that the country's civil society and governance are under attack.