Georgian state council rejects early release for journalist Mzia Amaghlobeli

The Georgian state council has rejected a request for early release for mzia amaghlobeli, founder of Batumelebi and Netgazeti. The appeal, submitted by the administration of Rustavi Prison, cited her good conduct and lack of prior convictions, despite their earlier assertion that she “acknowledges the fact that happened but does not consider it a criminal offence.” The Local Council for Reviewing Convict Cases, operating under the Special Penitentiary Service, denied the release due to amaghlobeli’s failure to express remorse for her actions. In January 2026, the prison administration requested the council’s consideration, detailing amaghlobeli’s behavior – including no emotional aggression, adherence to prison regulations, positive inmate relations, and a lack of prior convictions.

mzia amaghlobeli was initially detained in January 2025 following an altercation with then-Batumi Police Chief Irakli Dgebuadze, for which the prosecution sought a seven-year sentence for assault. The council, reviewing the request on 9 March, remained unconvinced, stating that granting early release “would be a sign of disrespect” to law enforcement and that amaghlobeli “does not participate in the social programmes offered by the administration.” Despite this, the administration noted her willingness to engage in rehabilitation programs post-trial. Throughout her trial, amaghlobeli acknowledged the slap but disputed its classification as assault.

The case has garnered significant attention, with Georgians rallying for her freedom. Dgebuadze, now serving in Tbilisi’s Central Criminal Police Department, has refuted abuse claims. mzia amaghlobeli’s imprisonment has been criticized as disproportionate and politically motivated, particularly given the lack of accountability for Dgebuadze and other involved parties.

She undertook a hunger strike during her initial detention, and her vision deteriorated while incarcerated.

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