The majority of the Board of Trustees of the Georgian Public Broadcaster (GPB) has issued a statement in support of the GPB First Channel journalists. Board members Lika Basilaia and Zaza Abashidze opposed the statement, while Lasha Tughushi was absent from the meeting.

Here is the official statement approved by the Board:

“Certain political circles and individuals continue to denigrate, harass, and insult the Georgian Public Broadcaster (GPB) and its journalists, often accompanied by threats to abolish public broadcasting if political forces associated with the previous government return to power.

This aggressive rhetoric and behaviour disregard societal norms, moral standards, civic responsibilities, and legal principles.

Recently, representatives of the Strong Georgia coalition, including Ana Dolidze, have intensified their attacks on our journalists, demonstrating unacceptable conduct.

Pursuing political goals through immoral and unlawful means has no place in a democratic society.

The Board of Trustees declares:

No force can silence the leadership of the GPB First Channel or its journalists through intimidation, coercion, or political manipulation, nor divert them from their commitment to objective and impartial reporting.

We categorically reject any blatant interference by political forces in the Public Broadcaster’s agenda or attempts to impose political influence. Such actions are futile and unacceptable. The Board remains committed to defending the principles of public broadcasting in Georgia and will respond appropriately to any future attempts to undermine these values.

The Public Broadcaster plays a crucial role in upholding the values of a democratic society and addressing the vital interests of our nation.

Protecting its independence and ensuring its uninterrupted operation is the responsibility of every citizen.”