“Mzia Amaglobeli’s offence was in no way related to journalistic activities; she was acting there as a party activist. Therefore, linking this incident to the media is pure speculation,” declared Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze speaking live on Imedi TV.
According to the Head of Government, the police are one of the most respected state institutions in the eyes of the Georgian people, and Mzia Amaglobeli was deliberately attempting to undermine the reputation of this institution.
“This is the Saakashvili scenario 2.0. You know how Saakashvili’s scenario ended in its time. He was on a hunger strike for months, on and off, but the state naturally took care of his health, just as it does for any prisoner’s health. This responsibility falls on the state as well. Of course, we wish everyone good health, and the state is accountable for the health of any prisoner.
Regarding the incident itself, it began when Mzia Amaglobeli was placing stickers on police officers; she was subsequently arrested, and conditionally released, and as soon as she was free, she slapped a police officer in the face. Thus, her actions were in no way connected to journalistic endeavours; she was acting as a party activist. Therefore, any attempt to link this incident to the media is absolute speculation.
When we speak of humanity, an action can be deemed humane if it is accompanied by remorse—in that case, one could talk about humanity. Otherwise, such an action can only be seen as a manifestation of inadequacy. Had these individuals come forward and simply stated that this lady behaved inappropriately and that one cannot insult a police officer, who is a representative of the state?
You know that the police are one of the most respected institutions in the eyes of the Georgian people. She went out and demonstratively sought to tarnish the image of this state institution. This entire episode served no other purpose. She shows no remorse, neither does she nor her fellow party members from the ‘collective National Movement.’ At times like these, they talk about how a person is on a hunger strike and should therefore be released from prison,” stated the Prime Minister.
Kobakhidze mentioned that he continually expresses readiness for dialogue on any issue, including the case of Mzia Amaglobeli.
“We repeatedly, continuously express our readiness for dialogue. I can reaffirm now that we are ready. If anyone wishes to discuss any issue, whether publicly or privately, specifically regarding Mzia Amaglobeli, let them come—I’m set to meet tomorrow and discuss this matter. You probably recall that previously, at various times, whether concerning the law, elections, or these protests, I requested meetings in any location, in any format, both public and private discussions. Every request was rejected. I suggested specific individuals, including, if I am not mistaken when Shota Arveladze appeared on your broadcast and indicated that the government wasn’t engaging with those inclined toward protest. I invited him to bring anyone he wanted. They didn’t even show up to discuss the football stadium issue today, let alone political matters.
What more could we discuss if they have questions or are interested in something? If anyone is avoiding discussion, it is precisely the protest participants because they understand that they are not right; the truth is not on their side. They simply are convinced that they must be ‘Natsi’ and must adhere rigidly to their established viewpoint. They are not ready for a discussion because they know the truth isn’t on their side. This is the sole reason.
If anyone wants to talk in any format, whether publicly or privately, let them come and engage in conversation. Let’s discuss any issue,” noted the Prime Minister.