24-10-2025
Tbilisi
Writer and host of one of TV Formula’s programs, Zviad Kvaratskhelia, was arrested for participating in a protest

On October 24, 2025, Zviad Kvaratskhelia, a writer, publisher, and editor-in-chief of Intellect, was arrested for participating in a protest. The court sentenced him to three days of administrative detention.

Zviad Kvaratskhelia, along with other detained citizens, including media representatives, is accused of blocking a road.

The Georgian Dream party has expedited legislative amendments that significantly restrict freedom of assembly and expression. According to the amendments, administrative detention of up to 15 days, without the option of a fine, is imposed for wearing a mask at a rally, possessing tear gas, or blocking a road. In addition, judges will no longer have the right to impose fines as an administrative penalty in cases of administrative offenses.

“The arrest of journalists by Georgian Dream is a direct attack on freedom of the media and expression. Under such conditions, the activities of independent media face serious threats, which significantly restricts the right of a democratic society to be informed,” the Media Advocacy Coalition said in a statement.

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24-10-2025
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Detention/Arrest | Legal incident
Court | Law enforcement
Persecution for expressing critical position
Tbilisi