The substantive hearing in the case of Mzia Amaghlobeli, founder of independent media outlets Batumelebi and Netgazeti, has resumed at Batumi City Court. This is expected to be the penultimate session, with Judge Nino Sakhelashvili possibly delivering a verdict on 28 July.

During today’s hearing, a neurologist expert witness testified. The prosecution also delivered its closing argument. Mzia Amaghlobeli was present at the trial.

The session was held amid a protest outside the courthouse, where colleagues and representatives of various civil society organizations rallied in support of Amaghlobeli.

Journalists from Batumelebi allege growing pressure from the government. According to the newspaper’s editor-in-chief, Eter Turadze, Georgia’s Revenue Service has imposed an encashment on the outlet’s bank accounts, citing a 47,000 GEL tax debt that has now accumulated additional penalty interest.

“As of now, the principal debt to the state is 47,000 GEL. At the beginning of the month, it stood at 136,000 GEL, part of which we have already paid. Additional charges include 126,000 GEL in penalty interest and 109,000 GEL in fines,” Turadze said.

She added that Batumelebi had acknowledged the debt and was making monthly payments, requesting an installment plan in line with the tax code. However, the Revenue Service rejected the request, and on 17 July, the encashment was enforced.

“The encashment, along with other financial actions planned for the coming week, appears to be a coordinated attempt to dismantle the independent media outlet,” reads a statement released by Batumelebi.

It was also revealed that the publishing house has decided to sell its Batumi office building.