Prepared by Messenger Staff
European Parliament Considers Special Resolution in Support of Journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli
The European Parliament may soon adopt a special resolution in support of jailed Georgian journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli, following growing concerns over media freedom and political repression in the country.
Lithuanian MEP Rasa Jukneviciene raised the issue during a session of the Parliament's Subcommittee on Human Rights, calling the move both urgent and essential-if backed by other political groups.
"We wanted to visit Mzia in prison but were denied access," Jukneviciene said. "She's become a symbol of political imprisonment and press freedom under threat. Showing solidarity with her now is more important than ever."
Jukneviciene recently returned from a visit to Georgia with fellow MEPs, where the delegation assessed the state of democracy and civil liberties. A report on their findings is expected to be published soon, outlining the challenges facing journalists and opposition voices in the country.
If adopted, the resolution would serve as a formal expression of support for Amaghlobeli and a signal to Georgian authorities that the international community is watching closely.
Lawyer Says Nika Melia Unfazed by New Charges, Denounces Investigation as Absurd
Opposition leader and one of the heads of the Coalition for Change, Nika Melia, has once again been charged by authorities, this time for an incident during a court hearing. His lawyer, Beka Kvinikadze, described the charge as absurd and stated that Melia remains unfazed.
"He met the latest absurd charge with a smile. Honestly, he does not care how many absurd accusations the regime brings against him, so we did not even spend much time discussing it. We do not know when they will decide to officially press charges. One of the issues is the lack of access to information. At the moment, he still does not have his card and cannot purchase a TV or other items," Kvinikadze noted.
The new investigation was launched after Melia threw water at Judge Irakli Shvangiradze during a court session. The Ministry of Internal Affairs has confirmed that the case is being investigated under Article 366 of the Criminal Code, which relates to contempt of court.
If convicted under this article, Melia could face penalties including a fine, community service, or up to one year of imprisonment.
